On Friday, August 30th, California’s DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) unveiled a framework for driverless trucks in California. The draft outlined standards for operating heavy-duty autonomous carriers weighing over 10,000 pounds. If the DMV approves the framework, autonomous vehicles will operate on roads with 50mph or more speed limits. This will also allow long-haul deliveries in hub-to-hub routes and less complex operational locations. Shipping operations, such as oversized loads, bulk tankers, and hazardous materials, are not in the framework for security reasons. There will be a two-phase permit process, including manufacturer testing with a safety driver in the vehicle. The second test will be driverless and deployment testing, also requiring a permit.
What Are The Benefits Of Driverless Trucks In California?
The framework proposal aims to use technology to transform California’s transportation sector. There are numerous benefits that driverless trucks can have shipping, including improving efficiency in the supply chain process. For example, Autonomous carriers may operate 24/7 without the necessity for breaks. This allows for faster delivery times and a greater volume to ship in the long run. Streamlining the transport process is also beneficial for shippers moving cargo internationally. Another reason behind the proposal is to enhance overall safety in domestic shipping. A leading cause of accidents is human error, which can result from bad driving behavior and fatigue.
Manufacturers design autonomous trucks to limit human error. These vehicles have sensors, cameras, and other technologies that can respond to situations faster than a driver. For trucking companies, driverless trucks can also lead to cost savings by taking away the need for labor costs. Savings come from the ability to optimize driving patterns and avoiding the price of harsh driving as well. There are also environmental benefits that come from the precise control of speed and braking, like reduced fuel consumption. The DMV allows public and stakeholder feedback until October 14th, before the formal rulemaking process starts.
Why Can There Be Issues With Autonomy In Domestic Shipping?
Despite the potential advantages that driverless vehicles can have on domestic shipping, there have been those opposing the framework. The regulations come at a time when autonomous trucks have been facing scrutiny due to recent accidents from the technology. There are various terrains, rough weather conditions, and busy roads that carriers have to navigate. Autonomy must have the industry’s confidence through feedback and constant testing that vehicles can navigate it. A prevalent issue is that many fear that autonomous trucks may lead to significant job loss in the industry. Even though it could save money in the long run, its initial costs are another concern. The expenses can come from maintenance, development, and infrastructure upgrades.
Autonomous vehicles are also vulnerable to cybersecurity attacks with their connection to the internet. Privacy is a concern since hackers may be able to get into the carrier’s logistic network. Despite the issues, autonomy is still in the early stages of development in the transportation industry and will be improved and perfected by developers over time. While it may be a while before self-driving trucks become more common, Speak to A1 Freight Solution at 786-375-9420 or info@a1fsinc.com to transport your cargo anywhere in the U.S. domestically. We have various solutions like drayage, temperature-controlled, heavy-haul, and more to ensure the success of your shipment.