Peloton runs 1,000-mile test of platooning trucks in Florida

The automation technology company completed a demonstration of two Class 8 platooning trucks at the Florida Driver-Assisted Truck Platooning Pilot Project on the Florida Turnpike, according to industry media outlet Commercial Carrier Journal.    Automation technology company Peloton Technology, in collaboration with the Florida Department of Transportation, ran a demonstration of its platooning Class 8 trucks during the State of Florida’s Driver-Assistive Truck Platooning Pilot Project on the Florida Turnpike, according to a report from industry news outlet the Commercial Carrier Journal.
   The two Peloton-equipped Volvo VNL670 Class 8 trucks logged more than 1,000 miles while demonstrating linked collision avoidance capabilities at a distance of 65 feet, said CCJ.
   Peloton’s system requires drivers to be in full control of steering and remain actively engaged in driving. The system links the trucks to coordinate their speeds and maintain a safe, aerodynamic following distance. For drivers, the system has similarities to Adaptive Cruise Control, radar-enhanced cruise control which is in use today in hundreds of thousands of cars and trucks, said CCJ. 
   Peloton co-founder and vice president of external affairs, Steve Boyd, said the two drivers in the demonstration benefited from connected safety systems and enhanced driver-to-driver communication while achieving high levels of aerodynamic fuel savings.
   “The demonstrations this week were very successful, and we look forward to working with the Florida transportation agencies, the Florida Trucking Association, major fleets and others as we bring this safety and efficiency technology to the Sunshine State,” said Boyd. “We want to thank the Governor, Legislature and State agencies for their leadership in allowing for the demonstration and advancement of innovative technologies that can bring enhanced safety, efficiency and mobility to both Florida and the nation.”
   Tom Byron, assistant secretary of strategic development for the Florida Department of Transportation, also said that vehicle platooning offers a competitive advantage for Florida. “We welcome this and other opportunities to test connected vehicle systems and other advanced transportation concepts that will improve roadway safety and bring new economic opportunities to the region,” he said.
   According to CCJ, nine states have confirmed allowance for commercial deployment of driver-assistive truck platooning, including Arkansas, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas. Additional states are considering confirming allowance in 2018.
   This week’s successful truck platooning demonstrations set the stage for the state of Florida to consider joining others in allowing full commercial deployment.
   Looking ahead to 2018, Peloton Technology says it will continue its work with Florida transportation leaders on the path to bringing its safety and efficiency solution into commercial operation in the state.