Truck platooning is the linking of two or three trucks into a convoy. These vehicles follow each other closely at a specific, close distance using communication technology and automated driving support systems.
The truck at the head of the platoon acts as the leader, while the vehicles behind it react and adapt to changes in their movement. For example, if the platoon leader brakes, all other trucks in the platoon brake as well.
The trucks automatically maintain a narrow distance between each other when they are connected on certain parts of the journey, for example on motorways. Parts of the route are still driven conventionally. Furthermore, the drivers are responsible for controlling the system at all times, so they can also decide to leave the platoon and drive independently. The drivers still play a decisive role, so their jobs will be preserved and made more diverse. Truck manufacturers and logistics operators are keen to bring truck platoons to Europe’s roads, and the first real-world tests are now underway.
Truck platooning has great potential to make road transportation safer, cleaner and more efficient in the future. Platoon results in lower fuel consumption, as trucks approach each other at a constant speed, with less braking and acceleration. Truck platooning also has the ability to reduce CO2 emissions by up to 10%. Likewise, connected driving can help improve safety, as braking occurs automatically with almost zero reaction time compared to human braking. Finally, the factions also work to improve transportation by using roads more efficiently, which helps deliver goods faster and reduces traffic congestion.
Furthermore, truck platooning is also part of the industry’s integrated approach to further reduce CO2 emissions. This approach looks at all the elements that affect emissions while the truck is in use. Besides the vehicle itself, trailer design, alternative fuels, logistics, infrastructure and intelligent transportation systems (ITS) play a crucial role in reducing CO2 emissions. Through future investments in ITS technology, road transportation can be made safer, cleaner and more efficient in the future. In fact, thanks to developments in intelligent transportation systems such as truck platooning, the next two decades will see more advances in mobility and transportation than the previous century.
