COLUMBUS, Ohio (AVC News) — Three semi-trucks equipped with advanced automation technology have begun hauling freight between Ohio and Indiana as part of a new initiative aimed at expanding automated trucking in the Midwest.
The project is a partnership between the Ohio Department of Transportation’s DriveOhio initiative and the Indiana Department of Transportation, with shipments being delivered for Nussbaum Transportation.
Officials say the deployment marks a significant step toward testing automated freight technology in real-world Midwest driving conditions, including rain, snow and heavy traffic. Much of the previous testing of automated freight systems has taken place in regions with milder and more predictable climates.
“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,” said Pam Boratyn, director of ODOT.
According to transportation officials, the trucks are equipped with multiple driver-assist and safety technologies designed to reduce collisions and ease driver stress. These include automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist and lane departure warnings — features already common in many passenger vehicles.
Additional sensors on the trucks monitor all sides of the vehicle and provide audible warnings if nearby vehicles or pedestrians are detected. The system can also prevent turning movements until the path is clear.
“Features being deployed will assist the driver and represent another innovative step forward to make our highways safer,” said Lyndsay Quist, commissioner of INDOT.
The trucks also include advanced blind-spot technology capable of steering the vehicle back into its lane if it begins moving toward an occupied lane. In the event a driver becomes unresponsive due to a medical emergency, the system can safely bring the truck to a stop and activate hazard lights.
Despite the automated features, professional drivers remain behind the wheel during the deployment.
“Our drivers operate in many different environments, including adverse weather conditions, busy traffic and road construction, and each presents unique driving challenges,” said Doug Bradle, chief operations officer for Nussbaum Transportation. “We value these new technologies and how they can aid our drivers in navigating these environments safely.”
Charles A. Jones, superintendent of the Ohio State Highway Patrol, said the technology could help reduce crashes and improve safety for drivers and the public.
Funded in part by a grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation, the multi-year $8.8 million project will test different levels of truck automation while integrating the technology into everyday freight operations across the region.
Last Updated on March 9, 2026 by AVC News
