Revolutionizing logistics: The impact of autonomous vehicles on supply chain efficiency

Abstract

This review paper assesses the impact of autonomous vehicles (AVs) on enhancing the efficiency of supply chains, aiming to synthesize existing research and identify future research directions. Through a comprehensive analysis of literature spanning technological, economic, and regulatory perspectives, this paper maps the current landscape of AV integration in logistics. The review finds that AVs offer substantial improvements in supply chain efficiency through continuous operation and reduced human error, leading to decreased costs and improved delivery timelines. It details the potential for up to 30% enhancement in logistical operations with AV adoption. Critical barriers such as technological challenges, regulatory concerns, and cybersecurity risks are also discussed. Conclusively, the paper argues that while AVs present a promising avenue for revolutionizing supply chain management, their widespread adoption depends on overcoming existing barriers. It calls for targeted research into robust AV systems, supportive policy frameworks, and stakeholder engagement strategies to fully realize their benefits.