Driverless trucks may soon be on UK roads

A number of major truck manufacturers have expressed an interest in the UK’s first trial of HGV platooning, which is expected to be given the green light in the Budget this week.

It is anticipated that the planned trial will involve platoons of driverless trucks, using cruise and proximity controls, tested on stretches of the UK’s motorways. It will look at the effect of platooning on reducing accidents and emissions, as well as improving traffic flow.

Mercedes-Benz parent Daimler, Daf, Iveco, MAN, Scania and Volvo have all indicated to Commercialmotor.com that they are involved in developing platooning systems. Daimler is testing autonomous trucks in Nevada and Germany (pictured).

And Daf marketing manager Phil Moon told Commercialmotor.com that the company has already conducted a trial in the Netherlands and would be interested in joining the UK platooning trial. “HGV platooning could become a reality within the next five years. The trial sends an important signal that the UK government has seen the benefits of this technology and is encouraging us to think of this as a possibility in the future,” he said.

Scania, which has run trials in Sweden, also expressed interest in the trial. A spokesman said: “We’ve been involved in platooning for sometime. We have developed the technology and so I am sure we will be interested in the UK trial.”

FTA road management policy chief Malcolm Bingham welcomed the trial. He said: “The data indicates both fuel saving and environmental benefits are to be had. But this technology is not going to be cheap so the question for members is, will the benefits outweigh the additional costs?”

RHA chief executive Richard Burnett questioned its relevance in the UK. He said: “Is platooning practical for the haulier? Does it make operational sense and, critically, will it be safe practice on UK roads with so many junctions?”

A DfT spokesman said: “We are planning trials of HGV platoons – which enable vehicles to move in a group so they use less fuel – and will be in a position to say more in due course.”

• This article was published in the 10 March issue of Commercial Motor. Why not subscribe today?