Technology
Commercial freight transportation businesses rely on data, intelligence, and novel solutions for operational efficiency. Transport Topics technology coverage investigates available technologies, real-world applications of business solutions, and the strategies necessary for advancement. News topics focus on the latest applied science, and issues range from autonomous vehicle and robotics innovations to management software, tracking and transparency, data analytics, blockchain, and the internet of things.
The Crooked World of Staged Accidents
Program Aired: September 9, 2021. Staged accidents aren't new, but in recent years, perpetrators have begun more actively targeting commercial trucks because they tend to have larger dollar signs associated with them. This issue not only affects the targeted carriers, but is raising insurance rates industry wide and encouraging new criminals to enter the market.
September 9, 2021Distraction, Fatigue Continue to Challenge Drivers, Study Says
A new study has concluded that talking and singing in the cab are not distracting for truck drivers, but other common activities such as adjusting the seat belt, reaching for food or drink, and adjusting the instrument panel or mirrors showed significant risk of a crash or near-crash.
OEMs Outline Vision for EV Transition Phases, Targets for Next 20 Years
LONG BEACH, Calif.— Truck maker executives said they are preparing for when broader support for zero-emission vehicles will come and sales will climb. For now, financial incentives, sell-side rules and the promise of corporate sustainability goals are supporting the medium- and heavy-duty truck electrification market.
Clean Technology Mix for Fleets Is Coming, Upstart Companies Say
LONG BEACH, Calif. — The uncertain residual value of emerging zero-emission trucks is a concern of prospective buyers. But Craig Knight, CEO of fuel cell technology provider Hyzon Motors Inc., is offering reassurance to his customers.
Amazon to Open Two Whole Foods Stores Without Cashiers
NEW YORK — Something will be missing at two Whole Foods stores opening next year: cashiers.
Ford Hires Exec Formerly in Charge of Apple’s Car Project
NEW YORK — Ford Motor Co. has hired a former executive from Apple and Tesla to be the company’s head of advanced technology and new embedded systems, a critical post as the auto industry moves to adopt vehicles powered by electricity and guided by computers.
September 8, 2021NTSB’s Homendy Expected to Be a Tesla Watchdog
Federal regulators last month officially opened an investigation into crashes involving Tesla Inc.’s Autopilot system. Jennifer Homendy, the new leader of the government’s transportation safety watchdog, hopes that’s just the beginning.
VTNA Plant to Be Supplied Using VNR Electric Trucks
LONG BEACH, Calif. — The Volvo VNR Electric, Volvo Trucks North America’s first commercially available battery-electric Class 8 vehicle, will be deployed on local logistics routes servicing the company’s New River Valley truck assembly operations in Dublin, Va., by the end of 2021, the company announced.
Shell, Meritor Make Case for Lower Emissions
LONG BEACH, Calif. — Shell and Meritor Inc. have withstood abrupt changes in an evolving transportation industry because of their ability to adapt to new technologies.
Dana Announces New HD, MD e-Axles
LONG BEACH, Calif. — Dana Inc. announced an expansion of its Spicer Electrified e-powertrain offerings to include a family of single and tandem e-axles designed for a variety of Classes 7 and 8 applications.