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.
Trailer Composites in Focus
In the endless quest to make trailers lighter, sturdier and more thermally efficient, some trailer manufacturers are expanding their use of composite materials, which could offer the potential for a higher strength-to-weight ratio.
May 11, 2018FedEx, Alphabet, Uber Win Drone Sweepstakes; Amazon Left Out
At Memphis International Airport, drones may soon be inspecting planes and delivering airplane parts for FedEx Corp. In Reno, Nev., they will test airlifting life-saving defibrillators to patients. And customers in Virginia could be awaiting Alphabet Inc.’s flying devices to get goods they ordered.
UPS to Use Futuristic-Looking Fleet of Electric Delivery Trucks in London, Paris
UPS Inc. plans to deploy a small fleet of futuristic, boxy-looking all-electric delivery trucks as part of a pilot program in London and Paris by the end of this year.
May 10, 2018DOT Unveils Drone Tests Ranging From Deliveries to Farming
A who’s who of technology and aviation companies won U.S. approval to push the edge of the envelope in drone flights, from testing people’s tolerance for delivery devices hovering over their rooftops to ensuring farmers’ drones won’t hit crop dusters.
Capitol Agenda for the Week of May 7: Little Bills
The art of the deal under the Trump administration is taking us from the promise of having a huge infrastructure package to asking us to settle for smaller, tinier measures. Essentially, you get what you can.
Uber’s Self-Driving Software Reportedly Decided Not to React Before Fatal Collision
Uber believes its self-driving software that chooses how to react when it detects objects in the roadway is the cause behind a fatal collision between one of its vehicles and a pedestrian.
Project Neon? There’s an App for That
With a smartphone, everyone from freight executives to daily commuters to tourists can learn about road closures related to the construction progress of Project Neon, the state of Nevada’s largest public works project at nearly $1 billion.
Roush Gets Electric With Ford F-650
LONG BEACH, Calif. — Roush CleanTech unveiled its all-electric technology in a Ford F-650, marking an expansion of its alternative-fuel market beyond propane autogas and compressed natural gas.
May 8, 2018ENow Shows 53-Foot Trailer With Solar-Based Refrigeration
LONG BEACH, Calif. — Solar technology provider eNow unveiled a 53-foot refrigerated trailer with solar panels mounted on its roof, calling it the first such all-electric solar-based refrigeration system to be deployed.
May 8, 2018Nation’s First Self-Driving Car Service for the Public Coming to Texas
FRISCO, Texas — The nation’s first self-driving car service for the public will begin here in July.