Self-Driving Semis and what truckers think.

The Evolution of Self-Driving Commercial Vehicles

In recent years, the emergence of self-driving commercial vehicles has been a topic of great interest and debate. In fact, with companies like Aurora, Plus.ai, Gatik, and Kodiak Robotics, it is predicted that the American truck driver would be replaced by 2027. Though some may view this technological advancement as a threat to traditional CDL jobs, it is important to recognize the numerous benefits and opportunities it presents. In this article, we will explore how self-driving commercial vehicles are a blessing in disguise, revolutionizing the transportation industry and improving the lives of people worldwide.

Enhanced Safety on the Roads

Now, that's stating the obvious.

One of the most significant advantages of self-driving commercial vehicles is the potential to enhance road safety. Human error is a leading cause of accidents on our roads, often resulting from fatigue, distraction, or other factors. By replacing human drivers with autonomous systems, self-driving commercial vehicles can significantly reduce the number of accidents caused by human error.

For instance, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that about 94% of road accidents are caused by human error. Self-driving vehicles, equipped with advanced sensors and artificial intelligence, can react faster and make more accurate decisions, minimizing the risk of collisions. This technology has the potential to save countless lives and reduce the economic and emotional toll of accidents.

Self-driving commercial vehicles can also help address the issue of driver fatigue. Long-haul truck drivers often face the challenge of staying alert and awake during extended periods on the road. By allowing autonomous systems to take over the driving tasks, drivers can rest and rejuvenate, reducing the likelihood of fatigue-related accidents.

Efficiency and Productivity

Self-driving commercial vehicles offer significant improvements in efficiency and productivity. These vehicles can operate around the clock, without the need for rest breaks or shift changes. This continuous operation ensures faster and more reliable delivery of goods, benefiting businesses and consumers alike.

Optimized routes and make real-time adjustments based on traffic conditions, road closures, and other factors would be more bearable for self-driving commercial vehicles. This level of efficiency reduces travel time, fuel consumption, and overall transportation costs. By streamlining the logistics process, self-driving commercial vehicles contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly transportation system.

The introduction of self-driving commercial vehicles opens up new opportunities for job creation and economic growth. While some may fear that these technologies will replace traditional CDL jobs, it is important to recognize that they will also create new roles and industries. The development, maintenance, and operation of autonomous vehicles require skilled professionals in various fields, from software engineering to data analysis. As the demand for self-driving vehicles grows, so does the need for a diverse workforce to support this expanding industry.

Improved Quality of Life for Communities

The introduction of self-driving vehicles potentially improves the quality of life for individuals and communities. Look no further than history books - from the development of the light bulb, electricity, cars, the septic system...This list is inexhaustible. There's always been that urge to hold on tight to the old ways of doing things, whereas letting go has only proved exponentially profitable.

Imagine a future where self-driving buses efficiently transport passengers in urban areas, reducing the number of private vehicles on the road. This would lead to less traffic, less pollution, and a more pleasant and sustainable urban environment. Additionally, self-driving commercial vehicles can provide transportation solutions for people with limited mobility, including the elderly and individuals with disabilities, enhancing their independence and access to essential services.

Self-driving vehicles can revolutionize the logistics and delivery industry. With the ability to navigate autonomously, these vehicles can bring goods and services to remote or underserved areas, improving access to vital resources. This is particularly beneficial for rural communities, where traditional transportation options may be limited.

Improved Quality of Life for Commercial Drivers and their families

Did I hear someone say "HOME TIME"?

The self-imposed, and sometimes agreed upon estrangement from friends and family are a literal pain to commercial drivers and their families, who have to deal with a repeated doses of loneliness and the mental strain of absenteeism. Extended separation from spouse and children takes a toll that oftentimes lasts a lifetime.

Toll on physical Health: The ambiance of cooking in your kitchen, sleeping on your bed, exercising in your living room, or taking a trip to the local gym is lost to the commercial driver whose options are limited to consuming nutrient-deficient, calorie-packed meals from the truck-stop, exercising in a boxed-in cab or a urine absorbed parking lot.

With factors such as these taking away the desire to be healthy, it's understandable why commercial drivers accounts for 70% overweight of the US overweight population.

Improved Bandwidth for growth: When asked why He drives a truck this even though He hates it so much. His reply,

"It's all I know"

From pre-trip inspections, loading, unloading, tarping, driving, napping, resting, communicating with family, dispatchers, brokers, shippers, cashiers, other truck drivers, post-trip inspections, Commercial drivers are professionals of vehicular precision. For most, the only glue that binds them to the road is the financial satisfaction. Most agree that long haul commercial driving does not fulfil their purpose nor give them the bandwidth to engage elsewhere.

There's a great deal of experience, empathy and character commercial driving brings, with combined industry-specific viewpoints on tourism, real estate, manufacturing, security, retail and the automotive industries. Perhaps, when necessity beckons again, the resilient commercial drivers would find a way, adapt and contribute their energies afresh.