The core technology of Locomation is its Autonomous Relay Convoy (ARCTM), in which one driver pilots a lead truck with technology augmentation, while an autonomous truck follows in tandem. This proprietary system allows the driver in the second vehicle to rest, said the company. Locomation added that each ARCTM segment is engineered for maximum yield and utilization by its business operations team.

Locomation and Wilson Logistics first announced their trial at the Truckload Carriers Association annual conference in March. Two Locomation trucks hauling Wilson Logistics trailers and freight were deployed as an ARCTM on a 420-mi. route that stretched from Portland, Ore., to Nampa, Ind., along I-84. That stretch of interstate highway has some of the most challenging road conditions in terms of curvatures, grades, and wind gusts, according to the companies.

Having seen the route for the first time during the initial, eight-day long pilot phase, Locomotion’s ARCTM covered approximately 3,400 miles and operated autonomously roughly half of the time, delivering 14 commercial loads.
More>>