Three automated freight trucks are now operating between Ohio and Indiana as part of an $8.8 million project studying safety and automation in freight transport.
OHIO, USA — Three freight trucks equipped with automation technology are now operating between Ohio and Indiana as part of a new effort to test advanced safety systems in real-world conditions.
The trucks began delivering shipments for Nussbaum Transportation through a partnership between the Ohio Department of Transportation’s DriveOhio initiative and the Indiana Department of Transportation. Officials say the project is designed to accelerate the adoption of automation technology in the freight industry.
Transportation leaders say the Midwest provides a unique testing environment because automated freight trials have largely taken place in regions with more predictable climates. The project will evaluate how the technology performs in rain, snow and other weather conditions common in the region.
“As modern vehicles increasingly integrate advanced safety features like lane-keep assist, automatic braking, and blind-spot detection, we are seeing a fundamental shift in roadway safety,” ODOT Director Pam Boratyn said. “While infrastructure engineering remains a cornerstone of our work, technology is the essential partner that will help us reach the goal of zero deaths on Ohio’s road.”
“INDOT continues to partner with DriveOhio to explore automation technology in commercial trucking here in the Crossroads of America,” INDOT Commissioner Lyndsay Quist said. “Features being deployed will assist the driver and represent another innovative step forward to make our highways safer.”
The trucks are equipped with several driver-assist features similar to technology already available in many passenger vehicles. These include automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist and lane departure technology.
Additional sensors can detect vehicles or people around the truck. The system provides an audible warning when an object is detected and prevents turning until the path is clear.
“Our drivers operate in many different environments, including adverse weather conditions, busy traffic, and road construction, and each presents unique driving challenges,” Doug Bradle, chief operations officer at Nussbaum, said. “We value these new technologies and how they can aid our drivers in navigating these environments safely. We want to do our part in testing and improving them.”
Officials say the trucks also feature advanced blind-spot technology that can steer the vehicle back into its lane if it begins moving into an occupied lane. If a driver becomes unresponsive due to a medical emergency, the system can bring the truck to a safe stop and activate hazard lights.
Despite the automation features, professional drivers will remain behind the wheel throughout the testing, according to officials.
“Truck drivers face demanding conditions every day, and our mission is to make our roads as safe as possible,” Charles A. Jones, Ohio State Highway Patrol superintendent, said. “This technology helps prevent crashes, protect lives and reduce the risks drivers face on the road. Every life lost is one too many, and using proven safety tools is one of the most meaningful ways we can keep people safe.”
Officials say the multi-year project is funded in part by a grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation. The $8.8 million effort aims to launch different levels of automation and integrate the technology into daily freight operations.
