New Trucking AI systems are revolutionizing the industry. Advanced Artificial Intelligence has the potential to help increase fuel efficiency and decrease driver responsibility. It may also solve the impending shortage of truck drivers, and reduce driving hazards.

The world of AI stretches on and on and it moves faster than we might expect. But what specific technologies can the trucking industry use to improve itself and lower labor costs?

New Trucking AI Explained

There are many different kinds of AI systems in use and development currently. We’ll talk about three of them here: precision mapping, platooning, and onboard video. These three applications focus on efficiency, ease of use, and safety.

Precision Mapping

Precision mapping helps to find the quickest and most efficient routes from Point A to Point B. A self-driving truck using this technology recently completed what is normally a 48-hour trip in just 22 hours. The technology scans roads and factors in physical distance as well as traffic congestion in order to produce the fastest and easiest route.

Platooning

Platooning involves multiple trucks driving in a row, with one truck acting as the leader. Sensors on each of the trucks help to maintain a safe distance and monitor the behavior of the vehicle in front of them. If the lead trucks slow down, the trucks behind it slow down. If the lead truck needs to change lanes, the followers prepare to do the same. With current AI tech, the trucks only need 1/5th the time of a human to detect braking.

Platooning also helps to save fuel costs. Exact numbers vary, but estimates show that the lead truck can reduce fuel use by between 4-8%. The following trucks see a reduction between 10-16%.

Real-Time Driving Footage

Onboard cameras capture unsafe driving conditions both in and out of the driver’s control. But sifting through all of that footage is a monumental task. AI helps to scan hours and hours of video and highlight poor driver habits. This helps fleet managers to identify and solve the problems quickly. It also results in overall safer roads.

But Wait, There’s More!

Eventually, researchers believe that AI will advance to such a level that trucks may be self-driving. With a projected driver shortage by 2026, this could help to keep supplies moving and labor conditions safe. Additional AI targets lane changes, drifting, parking assistance, and automatic emergency brakes. With so much technological support, drivers may find that their job is not only safer down the road–but easier and more enjoyable, too.