The Fleet Business Authority
Issue link: http://heavydutytrucking.epubxp.com/i/221397
to interview the customer to really see what's best for their application," he says. "In a lot of cases the K370 will work better than the [conventional] T370." CONNECTED VEHICLES AND HIGHWAYS We delve into this topic more on the following pages – the idea of vehicles communicating with each other and with the infrastructure. TMC members believe vehicle-toinfrastructure communications are likely. (We already see a version of this with automated tolling and weigh station bypass systems.) Wireless communications between the tractor and trailer are seen as likely in the survey, and vehicle-to-vehicle communications are seen as probable. Brian Heath at Drivewyze, which offers a smartphone-based weigh station bypass system, says weigh-inmotion and hours-of-service information could be exchanged wirelessly as the truck travels down the highway. Looking further out, we could even see driverless vehicle platooning, the TMC survey says. "The concept of driverless vehicles has intrigued me for many years," says Maverick's Jeffress. "What would a driverless tractor look like? Think of all the parasitic loads that could be removed – no need for HVAC, for instance. What would the efficiency of that second or third vehicle [in a platoon configuration] actually be? How does this thought process tie back to the safety technology advancements as well as CSA?" Peterbilt's Sproull says while autonomous vehicles are "a long way out, the technology is there. Demonstration vehicles today are showing that's very feasible." In fact, Peterbilt is involved in a platooning test project. Freightliner's Reed predicts that while we will continue to see active safety systems improve, trucks still need drivers for the foreseeable future. www.truckinginfo.com In the meantime, he says, "How can we help the folks behind the wheel be more effective – to be the safest, most fuel-efficient they can be?" ■ On the web: For some really far-out concept trucks, check out this photo gallery on our website: www.truckinginfo.com/ futuretrucks Transforming the way tractors, trucks and trailers are sold You have vehicles and we have over two million registered buyers who want to buy them – now. We can convert your surplus vehicles into revenue through our live and simulcast auctions. 3URYLGLQJÁH[LELOLW\ and full service We can create an Asset Recovery Program based on your unique needs. Reserve option Exclusive "Make an Ofer" program Five secure marshaling facilities in the U.S. Detailed descriptions, condition reports and images Vehicle conditioning including light body work and mechanical repairs 500 million items sold – annually Public company NASDAQ: LQDT Let us help you turn your trucks and trailers into cash. Call 888-832-7525 or email sell@liquidityservices inc.com. Transportation Assets: TruckCenter.com Industrial Assets: GoIndustry DoveBid / Government Liquidation Energy Assets: Network International www.sellyoursurplus.net Circle 173 on Reader Action Card DECEMBER 2013 • HDT 43