The prospect of heavy goods vehicles travelling on motorways, operating through wireless technology, looks set to become a reality thanks to £8.1m government funding for trials.
The system, “platooning”, will see up to three heavy goods vehicles, travelling in convoy, being controlled by the lead vehicle. However, every truck in the platoon will have a driver ready to take control should the need arise.
Commenting, RHA chief executive Richard Burnett said: “Of course we welcome improvements to the way the road freight industry works and we understand the benefits that such a mode of operation would bring.
“However,” he continued, “currently the focus seems to be on the technology behind the system. Safety has to come first and it cannot be compromised. It is crucial that this element of the concept gets the highest priority.”
The RHA will be following the trials very carefully and will be making its views heard on the consultation that follows.
