A new experiment: a Volvo FH truck leads an automated convoy!
The future of the road haulage just might be here already! While the driver of the lead truck always stays vigilant, other drivers of the road train may relax and let their vehicles be guided by the leader. The test drive organised within the framework of the SARTRE project is clearly a step forward in this direction.
The future of the road haulage might already be here! While the driver of the lead truck always stays vigilant, other drivers may relax and let their vehicles be guided by the first truck. The test drive organized within the framework of the SARTRE project is clearly a step forward in this direction.
Test drive: 2 Volvo FH trucks and 3 cars form an automated convoy
The vehicles of the automated convoy are all equipped with cameras, radars and a wireless communication system. Thus, the truck and the cars following the Volvo FH truck repeat all the manoeuvre of the lead vehicle: acceleration, braking, turning… Between each vehicle there was a 6 meter distance and they were going at 85 km/h. The automated convoy travelled 200 km on a motorway, joining the existing traffic without experiencing any difficulties.
More vigilance for the driver of the Volvo FH lead truck
The driver of the Volvo FH truck leading the automated convoy must be a professional driver specifically trained for this task, for it is a great responsibility. To help him or her succeed in this job, the driver is supported by a range of specific safety and driving systems designed by Volvo Trucks. For the other drivers of the automated convoy, the task is much easier: they can relax and even let go of the steering wheel.
A better fuel efficiency - one of the key goals of the SARTRE project
When trucks operate in automated convoys, it allows to improve the aerodynamics of all the vehicles involved. The widespread use of this model could greatly improve the traffic flow and thus lower the environmental impact of the haulage industry.
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