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 to Reveal ‘Beast’ Semi-Truck in October, Elon Musk Says
Silicon Valley automaker Tesla is tentatively set to reveal its electric semi-truck in October, CEO Elon Musk said
September 14, 2017Freight Factoring on Upswing in 2017
Freight factoring is on the upswing this year as traditional banks apply stringent lending standards and truckers who are most likely to sell invoices benefit from a robust spot market, industry executives say.
Trimble Acquires Electronic Freight Monitoring Company 10-4 Systems
Trimble Inc. has added another piece to its growing portfolio of transportation technology services with the purchase of 10-4 Systems, a company that provides a way for shippers and carriers to electronically monitor the movement of goods and process freight transactions.
September 14, 2017Mack Launches New Highway Tractor, the Anthem
ALLENTOWN, Pa. — Mack Trucks introduced the Mack Anthem, its long-awaited new highway tractor, to an arena packed with dealer representatives, who company executives thanked for their patience and who were promised a truck that boasts gains in fuel efficiency, driver comfort and technological innovation compared to previous models.
Daimler’s Smart Car Delivers a Song-and-Dance About Self-Driving Challenges
In a musical fantasy for Daimler AG’s Smart brand, performers at the Frankfurt motor show this week literally sang out the virtues of an autonomous two-seater, with the spectacle suggesting there’s more fiction than fact in robo-cars.
Drivers Remain Essential Amid Autonomous Technology, Trucking Execs Tell Senate Panel
WASHINGTON — As autonomous technology evolves, drivers will remain integral to the movement of goods and services for the foreseeable future, top trucking executives told senators concerned about potential disruptions in the labor force.
Senators Look at What Self-Driving Trucks Might Mean to Drivers
A U.S. Senate committee is considering whether legislation dealing with the future of self-driving cars should also pave the way to self-driving trucks, considering the impact such technology could have on millions of workers.
Contractor Association Requests Exemption From ELD Rule
The Power and Communication Contractors Association has requested an exemption from the impending electronic logging device mandate, according to an announcement from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.
Tesla Automation Faulted by NTSB in 2016 Fatal Florida Crash
Tesla Inc.’s design of its Autopilot system contributed to a 2016 fatal crash in Florida, accident investigators concluded as they recommended all automakers prevent autonomous driving systems from being used on roads for which they are not designed.
NCDOT Considering Technology, More Truck Stops to Ease Parking Shortage
North Carolina’s Department of Transportation is exploring construction of additional truck stops and installation of sensor technology to resolve its shortage of truck parking spaces.