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.
Tesla Loses Most Valuable Carmaker Crown as GM Catches Up
If the outlooks from the two auto companies are anything to go by, GM looks set to be winning the race for the year.
Seven Ways the Ocean Cargo Industry Is Pursuing Green Shipping
Some of the world’s most conservative companies are starting to experiment with cleaner fuels and cutting-edge technologies to meet new standards starting next year that mandate steep cuts of sulfur emissions from oceangoing ships.
Tesla Cuts Jobs on the Road to Making an Affordable Electric Car
Tesla, recognizing as imperative its ability to produce a cheaper electric car, told employees Jan. 18 that it must cut 7% of its workforce.
January 18, 2019Volvo Group Venture Capital Invests in Wireless Electric Charging
Volvo Group Venture Capital AB, a subsidiary of Volvo Group, announced it has invested an undisclosed amount in Momentum Dynamics Inc., which provides high-power wireless charging systems for the automotive and transportation industries.
Editorial: Final-Mile at the Forefront
The Transportation Research Board annual meeting takes a deep dive into topics that touch every aspect of transporting goods and people. This year, discussion of final-mile deliveries was front-and-center.
January 17, 2019December Class 8 Sales Cap Fourth-Best Year All-Time
U.S. Class 8 retail sales rose 16.7% to 26,083 in December to cap the fourth-highest sales year ever as fleets replaced older trucks and expanded amid tight capacity, strong freight demand and high rates.
Presence of Autonomous Vehicles Felt in US
WASHINGTON — Technology is changing the transportation landscape as freight carriers move toward self-driving vehicles and public officials look for new ways to develop infrastructure and prepare for what could be a major shift in traffic patterns and driving behavior.
Chinese Electric Car Manufacturer Set to Crack US Market
The Nasdaq-listed company, Kandi Technologies Group Inc., which started making electric cars in 2013, plans to ship two of its models to the United States this year, Chairman and CEO Hu Xiaoming said Jan. 16. Sales will start after the company clears regulatory procedures, which have been held up by the federal government shutdown, Hu said.
January 17, 2019TRB Panelists Outline Benefits of Freight Data
WASHINGTON — Analyzing and visualizing data can help state departments of transportation and planning organizations better understand traffic flow, safety concerns and capacity needs, according to a group of panelists assembled at the Transportation Research Board’s annual meeting Jan. 16.
Parcel Lockers, EVs Combine for Energy Savings in Final Mile, Researcher Says
WASHINGTON — Electric trucks and vans show great promise for energy savings in making suburban deliveries for companies such as UPS Inc., according to an Oak Ridge National Laboratory scientist who presented her findings to a forum at the Transportation Research Board’s annual meeting.