A technology to allow truck drivers to drive two trucks at a time

A surprising method is developed to combat the shortage of drivers-tower. Currently tested on closed roads, it can drive two trucks at a time.

In a short time, we may see convoys of two trucks including the second without a driver. This may surprise, if we meet them on the roads. We will see a first semi-trailer passing with his driver (as usual). And a few meters further, another truck that follows it, but this time, without anyone in the cabin. All that the first truck does (if it accelerates, if it brakes, if it turns …) will be transmitted to the second truck. His on -board computer will then rely on this information and his own radars to control the follower truck and allow him to ride in convoy safely. It is much simpler, and above all cheaper, than creating a completely independent truck. Since there is no longer any need to anticipate what’s going on far away. You just have to keep a safety distance with the one in front and possibly manage a car that is inserted between the two.

There is a risk (in fire for example), that the follower truck finds itself blocked, but there is little chance that it will happen. First, the second truck can follow very closely, since it is perfectly synchronized with the front. Then there is the responsibility of the driver. It’s just like when someone follows you. You look in the retro. You are careful not to lose it. Drivers will therefore receive special training to be sure never to break the convoy. And if there is really a problem, they will be able to take the hand, at a distance, on the second truck and take it out of the petrin. It is a technology developed by the Kratos start-up. It is currently tested on closed roads before a deployment on open roads.

We understand the interest in carriers, but this could also double the risk of accident because if the first driver makes a mistake, she will be reflected on the two trucks. To see, therefore, what safeguards will be set up. Another problem, more psychological that one: cross a truck without anyone behind the wheel. If the development of autonomous trucks patina, it is mainly because of regulatory problems. Acceptance by the public in particular. We are not reassured to cross a truck on the road. So imagine if there is no one behind the wheel …