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.
Daimler Will Retool Century-Old Engine Plants in Electric Shift
Daimler AG has entered discussions with its powerful German labor unions to convert key engine and transmission factories for the electric-car era.
Study Outlines Current, Future 3PL Trends
Third-party logistics companies are facing a changing environment and an evolving relationship with shippers, according to a new study.
Self-Driving Car Bill Reintroduced in House Minus Biggest Backer
Legislation that would allow carmakers to sell as many as 100,000 self-driving vehicles per year in the U.S. is being reintroduced in the U.S. House of Representatives, but one of its biggest cheerleaders is staying on the sidelines until next year.
California Aims to End Sales of New Gas-Powered Cars, Trucks by 2035
California will aim to halt sales of new gasoline-powered passenger cars and trucks by 2035, Gov. Gavin Newsom announced Sept. 23, a move he says would cut greenhouse gas emissions by 35% in the nation’s most populous state.
VW Aims to Turn Legions of SUV Buyers Into Electric Converts
Volkswagen AG is setting a high bar for the first electric vehicle it will build around the globe.
Mack Touts Versatility of New Medium-Duty Models in Crowded Market
Mack is emphasizing its Class 8 experience with various applications as full production is underway for two new medium-duty models designed for various segments in that highly competitive market.
TuSimple, Traton Group to Develop Autonomous Trucks in Europe
TuSimple, a developer of autonomous-driving technology for trucking, and Traton Group, Volkswagen AG’s heavy-truck unit, announced a partnership to develop SAE Level 4 self-driving trucks, calling it a first in Europe. Traton also took a minority stake in TuSimple.
Elon Musk Says Tesla Plans $25,000 Autonomous EV in 3 Years
Tesla Inc. plans to manufacture a car that will cost $25,000 in about three years’ time, fulfilling an elusive long-term objective to sell a cheap mass-market electric vehicle, Chief Executive Officer Elon Musk said Sept. 22.
Shippers Might Pay More for Cargo in 2021, C.H. Robinson Says
Shippers probably will pay more for freight heading into 2021 after the pandemic lockdown drove many small truckers out of business and cargo demand rebounds faster than the economy, C.H. Robinson Worldwide Inc. CEO Bob Biesterfeld said.
C.H. Robinson Aims to Disrupt Buying Process With Procure IQ
C.H. Robinson on Sept. 22 launched a tool intended to expand the ways in which shippers can analyze and buy freight lanes.