DfT approves real-world trials of platooning HGVs

‘Platoons’ of HGVs could soon be seen on real-world public roads in the UK following the news that the Department for Transport has approved the Transport Research Laboratory to conduct trials of the semi-autonomous technology. Unlike fully autonomous vehicles, during the trials there will be human drivers in all of the trucks, and the driver of the lead vehicle will be in full control. Those further back in the convoy will drive close behind, at a distance that might normally be thought of as tailgating, and will automatically brake or accelerate to maintain a constant distance. As a result, the platoon overall will take up a shorter length of road, and the ability to control the convoy’s speed more constantly should result in a reduction in both fuel consumption and carbon emissions. There are certain safety precautions in the test – the human drivers of vehicles further back will be able to take control to break formation, for example if the platoon is blocking the way of a car trying to exit at a slip road, or in the case of an emergency. Coming in at a cost of just over £8 million, the trial builds on the feasibility study conducted in 2014 and on similar trials in continental Europe and the USA, but is tailored specifically to the characteristics of UK roads. Richard Cuerden, academy director at TRL, said: “Platooning technology has the potential to deliver a wide range of benefits to all road users. “As well as supporting the Department for Transport and Highways England in informing future infrastructure investments and policy decisions, the trials will highlight the services that platooning may offer road users and whether these can safely contribute to a reduction in vehicle emissions, improved journeys and greater economic prosperity.”

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