Highway truck platooning demonstration in North Carolina tests promising technology expected to result in up to 10 percent fuel savings for fleet costumers

Open-road platooning demo marks an important step toward implementing platooning technology for commercial use.

Date Posted
10/30/2018
Identifier
2018-B01315
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Volvo Trucks, FedEx Demo Platooning Tech on North Carolina Interstate

Summary Information

In April, May, and June of 2018, Volvo Trucks America, FedEx, and the North Carolina Turnpike Authority conducted real-world testing of truck platooning technologies along interstate 540 in North Carolina. The trucks utilize dedicated short-range communication (DSRC) and Volvo’s vehicle to vehicle (V2V) technology to hold a steady speed of 62 mi/h along a 20-mile loop on interstate 540.

Methodology:
Volvo tractors, that were outfitted platooning technology, pulled FedEx trailers to test real-world routes and trailer loads.

Results:

  • Volvo Trucks of North America noted truck platooning would improve traffic congestion, lessen air resistance, and improve fuel economy across the platoon.
  • Fuel savings are estimated at 10 percent from platooning.
Results Type