Perspective: Autonomous Trucking Is Not a Race

Autonomous trucking is rapidly advancing on a national scale, offering potential revolutionary changes to freight and supply chain management. However, a major hurdle lies in gaining the trust of everyday drivers sharing the roads with self-driving trucks. The industry is taking a cautious approach, emphasizing the importance of thorough testing to ensure the technology can handle the myriad challenges faced by traditional truck drivers. Longhaul testing plays a critical role in preparing autonomous trucking technology for widespread adoption by exposing it to real-world conditions and scenarios. This testing is essential for building consumer confidence in autonomous technology, as revealed by the meager 37% confidence score reported by the J.D. Power 2023 U.S. Mobility Confidence Index. The industry understands the necessity of prioritizing safety and quality over speed to establish trust and secure public acceptance of such innovations. As autonomous trucking progresses, extensive and meticulous testing, rooted in real-world data and conditions, will be key in advancing the technology and ensuring its readiness for broader deployment. Through collaborative efforts, sharing insights, and adhering to safety protocols, the autonomous trucking industry aims to not only enhance efficiency and safety within supply chains but also promote greater public awareness and acceptance of autonomous vehicles in the transportation landscape.