Semi-automated trucks take to European roads

Six European truck manufacturers will bring platoons of semi-automated trucks to public roads, crossing borders from various European cities in order to reach their final destination of the Port of Rotterdam on 6 April. The overall objective of this European Truck Platooning Challenge is to accelerate the introduction of truck platoons by putting the subject high on the agenda of EU policy makers.

According to the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (6175 ACEA), truck platooning can help make road transport safer, cleaner and more efficient in the future. It said cooperation is vital to prevent countries from creating a patchwork of rules and regulations, which could hinder investments in automated and connected vehicles.

However, reacting to the announcement that the UK will start platooning trials, 6985 Road Haulage Association chief executive Richard Burnett said the technology had to prove itself and questioned: “Does it make operational sense and, critically, will it be safe on UK roads with so many junctions?”