Daimler unveiled what it calls Mercedes-Benz Future Truck 2025 this week, signaling the future of the transportation industry. Like some of Mercedes’ passenger cars, the prototype big rig is capable of driving itself at speeds up to 55mph.
The Future Truck uses four radar sensors and two cameras to control its adaptive cruise control, automatic braking, stability control and lane-keeping assistance systems. The prototype also has a new system called “Predictive Powertrain Control” that uses road topography information to maximize efficiency. As demonstrated on a portion of Germany’s autobahn, the truck is fully autonomous, although it still lacks the ability to change lanes and overtake vehicles on its own. However, Daimler says that technology is coming.
“Autonomous driving will revolutionize road freight transport and create major benefits for everyone involved,” said Dr. Wolfgang Bernhard, the member of Daimler’s Board of Management responsible for Daimler Trucks and Buses. “With the Future Truck 2025, Daimler Trucks is once again highlighting its pioneering role in innovative technologies and opening up a new era in truck transport.”
Daimler is optimistic that the Future Truck will be able to cut down on road congestion and traffic fatalities. The truck maker also notes that the Future Truck runs more efficiently than today’s semis, which means lower running costs for trucking companies.
Daimler’s autonomous Future Truck might seem at odds with truck drivers, but the company says it could actually help the profession. Without being bothered with the mundane task of driving, truckers could be transformed into office workers on wheels.
“The Highway Pilot system will significantly upgrade the job profile of truck drivers. It will not only free them from having to perform monotonous tasks; it will also give them more time for tasks that were previously handled by office workers at shipping companies,” Daimler said. “In other words, it will be possible for truckers to advance to new positions as transport managers, making truck driving a more attractive profession.”
Leave a Reply