Semi-automated truck convoys get green light for UK trials
The government has given the go-ahead for the first trials of convoys of semi-automated trucks on UK motorways and allocates £8.1m to trials of ‘platooning’ which proponents say could cut congestion and hauliers’ fuel costs
Up to three wirelessly connected HGVs will travel in convoy, with acceleration, braking and steering controlled by the lead vehicle, a concept named platooning. Each lorry will have a driver in the cab ready to retake control at any time.
The government is providing £8.1m in funding for trials of the technology. The Department for Transport (DfT) and Highways England have yet to confirm where the first tests will be carried out, but said they were expected on major roads by the end of 2018.
Proponents say platooning could cut both congestion and the cost of fuel for hauliers, although motoring organisations have voiced concerns about safety, particularly on motorways.
Similar trials have been successfully carried out in the US and Europe. An EU challenge in 2016 saw platoons of connected trucks travelling from Germany, Sweden and Belgium converge in Rotterdam.
