Autonomous Trucks to Solve Driver Shortage Issue?

Shippers said reduced costs and better reliability are the most important benefits of autonomous truck adoption.

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AA+W AdobeStock_300774691

Autonomous trucks are set to augment the freight and logistics landscape. In fact, three-quarters of respondents (76%) said they were extremely likely or somewhat likely to consider an autonomous freight solution in the future, according to Uber Freight.

“Overall, our survey suggests that a substantial number of shippers are excited to use autonomous trucks in the future, and they are asking important questions about the safety of autonomous trucks and their impact on business operations. This tells us that shippers are genuinely invested in the continued emergence of self-driving technology and its potential impact on the future of freight,” Uber Freight says.

 

From Uber Freight:

 

  • Based on qualitative responses, shippers said their primary concerns are the safety and reliability of autonomous trucks, as well as questions of who’s liable if an autonomous truck gets into an accident.
  • Shippers said reduced costs and better reliability are the most important benefits of autonomous truck adoption.
  • Additional responses included reducing greenhouse gas emissions, as driverless trucks can travel during off-peak hours and use braking more efficiently than human drivers.
  • Half of respondents would still be willing to pay more for autonomous trucks than human-driven trucks, while the other half would be willing to pay the same price as human drivers. 
  • More than half of the surveyed shippers are unlikely to accommodate lighter cargo for autonomous trucks, as it could increase shipping costs.
  • Many respondents are prepared to make changes at their facilities to support autonomous trucks, especially around drop trailer capabilities and digitizing documentation.
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