UK to begin truck platooning trials

In an effort to lower emissions and increase efficiency, the United Kingdom will be commencing a three-phase trial to evaluate truck platooning on major roadways throughout the nation.    The United Kingdom has pledged 8.1 million pounds (U.S. $10.5 million) in government funding for truck platoon trials.
   According to the government’s release, trials will see up to three “heavy goods vehicles travelling in convoy” with acceleration and braking controlled by the lead vehicle. All three vehicles will have a driver on hand to regain control if necessary.
   Platooning is seen a potential benefit for efficiency, lowering emissions and improving air quality, said the government release.
   “We are investing in technology that will improve people’s lives. Advances such as lorry platooning could benefit businesses through cheaper fuel bills and other road users thanks to lower emissions and less congestion,” said Transport Minister Paul Maynard. “But first we must make sure the technology is safe and works well on our roads, and that’s why we are investing in these trials.”
   The trial funding will be provided by the United Kingdom’s Department for Transport and Highways England, while the Transport Research Laboratory will carry out the trials in three phases. The first phase will focus on platooning on major roadways. Initial test track based research will determine distance between vehicles and which roads to test platooning on, said the government release.
   “We are pleased to be supporting the government’s ambition for the UK to be a global leader for innovation. The trial has the potential to demonstrate how greater automation of vehicles – in this instance, HGVs – can deliver improvements in safety, better journeys for road users and reduction in vehicle emissions,” said Jim O’Sullivan, Highways England Chief Executive. “Investing in this research shows we care about those using our roads, the economy and the environment, and safety will be integral as we take forward this work with TRL.”
   Trials are slated for commencement on major roadways in 2018.