Driverless trucks: Blinded by the hype

Mar 09, 2020 at 09:57 AM CST
If the path to autonomous trucking were a highway, it would be strewn with confusing laws, conflicting definitions, ignored recommendations, unproven technology and the rush for profits. Above this mythical highway would hang a pulsing yellow caution light. I’m a strong proponent of proven truck technology and have invested in advanced systems to protect our drivers, the public and freight. But when it comes to driverless vehicles, I see causes for concern, especially in the areas of infrastructure, training, governance and technology. What’s more, the self-driving chatter is drowning out other, more relevant conversations with immediate impact on the supply chain. Here’s why I advocate hitting the brakes on the rush to embrace driverless technologies.

Mar 09, 2020 at 09:57 AM CST

If the path to autonomous trucking were a highway, it would be strewn with confusing laws, conflicting definitions, ignored recommendations, unproven technology and the rush for profits. Above this mythical highway would hang a pulsing yellow caution light. I’m a strong proponent of proven truck technology and have invested in advanced systems to protect our drivers, the public and freight. But when it comes to driverless vehicles, I see causes for concern, especially in the areas of infrastructure, training, governance and technology. What’s more, the self-driving chatter is drowning out other, more relevant conversations with immediate impact on the supply chain. Here’s why I advocate hitting the brakes on the rush to embrace driverless technologies.