Lessons Learned From Industrial Applications of Automated Trucks for Deployment on Public Roads

Abstract

Automated trucks may streamline road freight. While manufacturers and technology developers have long predicted their advent, technical and regulatory challenges persist, and systems beyond SAE level 2 are rare. However, systems at levels 3 and 4 are being adopted on industrial areas. Roads authorities want to study such applications to gain insights into requirements for implementing automated trucks on public roads. Two cases were studied here: Automated stone haulage (1), and automated snow removal (2). Interviews with project managers were used to identify opportunities and barriers, and evaluate the applicability of different technical and organizational solutions, for implementing automated trucks on public roads. Road and winter maintenance are explored, outlining the strengths and vulnerabilities of automated driving systems, and how other adaptations can overcome them. Requirements for pre-mapping, localization and communication are also elaborated. Considerations on control and oversight, and on automation as an enabler for electrification are explored, alongside the importance of change management procedures.