As new technological advancements are revealed, it’s important to know what impact they will have on the trucking industry. Fascinating advancements in data analytics, connectivity, and automation are set to transform the industry in exciting ways.
Here’s a look at what’s on the horizon with technology’s impact on trucking.
Self-driving Trucks
With automation coming to passenger cars, the trend is making its way to trucking. Revolutionizing the ways goods are transported, autonomous trucks—or self-driving trucks—are currently being tested. They use sensors, cameras, and an advanced set of algorithms to drive without someone behind the wheel.
These trucks can reduce transportation costs by taking drivers out of the equation. They may also improve safety by reducing the impacts of driver fatigue and human error. However, automation still has some hurdles to overcome before these vehicles are on the road.
Real-time Connectivity
The latest advancements in technology make it possible to instantly collect and analyze data. With connectivity, trucks can send data about the engine’s performance and driver behavior. It can be used to improve efficiency, spot problems before they become major maintenance issues, and bolster safety measures. Additionally, with these connections, it’s possible to find the best routes while reducing fuel consumption and emissions.
Electric and Alternative Options
With a huge focus on reducing emissions and improving sustainability, it’s easy to see why electric and alternative fuel trucks are the future of the industry. These vehicles offer an environmentally friendly option over the traditional diesel-powered commercial vehicles.
Electric trucks have zero emissions and provide lower operating costs. This makes them a promising option for fleet owners. But the limited range and long charging times are huge factors to consider as well. Alternative fuel trucks that are powered by compressed natural gas or hydrogen fuel cells may be a better option as they are cleaner and provide the longer range and performance that the trucking industry needs for transporting great distances.
Technology’s impacts on the future of trucking have the potential to greatly transform the industry as we know it. With improved efficiency, reduced costs, increased safety, and the ability to meet the growing demand for sustainable solutions in transportation, it shows this industry is evolving.
Tips for Incorporating Technology into Your Trucking Business
Even though the future of trucking is an exciting one, it’s important to remember a few things. Namely, you need to have a way to access your raw data to leverage these technologies.
Additionally, looking at what your business needs and how it fits in is important rather than blindly jumping into the technology. For example, it may be more feasible for you to steer towards hybrid options rather than go for something fully electric.
While the impact and benefits of these new technologies in trucking can no longer be ignored, you need to find a way to get into them. But without knowing how they work, it may be a big challenge for those who have been doing things the old way for so long. Still, these advanced technologies aren’t out of reach, especially if you’re trying to maximize your bottom line.
How will these technologies impact your trucking company? It helps to have a guide to your future of how you envision your trucking business while factoring in these new technological resources. With these tools, all roads will be free for you to roam as long as you know how to implement them in your company.
