The Potential Impacts of Driverless Trucks on the Long-Haul Trucking Industry

While we may be several decades away from 'driverless' trucks cruising on public roads, the advent of this technology is poised to revolutionize the long-haul trucking industry. The integration of autonomous technology will not only reduce shipping costs but also dramatically transform various aspects of the industry, ranging from truck design and engine specifications to the logistical processes of loading, unloading, and transportation.

Reduced Costs and Increased Efficiency

The elimination of driver-related expenses is perhaps the most significant impact of autonomous trucks. Sleepers are no longer a necessity, and the requirement for a driver/passenger compartment, windshield, and safety-related features will be minimized. This alone can lead to increased fuel efficiency due to more aerodynamic designs. Moreover, the use of basic, fuel-efficient engines will become more common, further reducing the operational costs.

The ability to run 24/7 without concerns over driver schedules will lead to a decrease in the number of trucks needed to carry the same volume of goods. Training and turnover costs, which can be significant, will also diminish as autonomous technology handles these aspects. This straightforward efficiency can lead to a paradigm shift in the logistics industry, potentially lowering shipping costs by a substantial margin.

Changes in Insurance and Safety

The reliance on human judgment in driving decisions can be eliminated, significantly reducing the risk of accidents. Automated trucks can potentially park themselves in adverse weather conditions, and they will never tire, making taking the right decisions under all conditions more reliable. Consequently, insurance costs may also drop dramatically. This shift could lead to a more predictable and safer transportation network, aligning with the stricter safety regulations often mandated for human-operated trucks.

Transformed Logistics Operations

Facilities like truck stops and the entire infrastructure around trucking will undergo significant changes. With no need for drivers to rest, it will be possible to transport goods continuously without interruptions, thereby reducing the need for stopovers and related services. The logistics of loading and unloading will also become more complex, as assistance from drivers is no longer available. Businesses will need to invest in new systems for managing and optimizing these processes.

Shipping Costs and Fuel Efficiency

In terms of fuel costs, driverless trucks can potentially benefit from better fuel efficiency through technologies like fuel drafting, where multiple vehicles travel in close formation to reduce drag. This could lead to significant savings, as over 25% of the cost of long-haul shipping is associated with fuel. The operational efficiency of these autonomous trucks can be further enhanced by real-time optimization, leading to better mileage and reduced expenses.

Impact on Logistics and Transmodal Shipping

The logistics industry, especially in the USA where transmodal shipping is widely prevalent, will experience a major transformation. The cost of shipping is heavily influenced by the transfer and warehousing of materials, but driverless trucks could provide additional savings. For instance, a trip from Los Angeles to New York, a distance of 2,813 miles, could see a driver's pay reduced from $1,125.20 to $1,406.50, a significant change. Adding fuel costs of $2,703.30 to $1,544.74 and other operational costs, the total driver cost could constitute only one-quarter of the overall shipping cost.

Automated trucks would also benefit from rumored improvements in engine efficiency, such as the forthcoming trucks with 9MPG capabilities. This would further reduce fuel consumption and contribute to lower overall shipping costs.

Overall, the advent of driverless trucks presents a profound opportunity for optimization and cost reduction in the long-haul trucking industry. While significant changes are expected, the industry must adapt to these shifts, embracing new technologies and processes to remain competitive in the evolving landscape of logistics.