Will Autonomous Trucks Ever Rule The World?

The future looks bright for autonomous trucks.

With self-driving cars slowly integrating into our society, it is only a matter of time until self-driving technology finds its way into the trucking industry. While self-driving trucks are still a long way away, the industry has continued to make strides in this area. However, there is an important distinction that needs to be addressed. There is a difference between autonomous or self-driving trucks and driverless trucks. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has made determining where we stand in regard to autonomous or self-driving trucks simple and easy with a handy guide clearly defining the various levels or stages of autonomy.

Level 0

In level 0, a human, such as a truck driver controls everything from steering to braking. However, in this level, there really is no vehicle assisting the truck driver.

Level 1

In level 1, most functions are still controlled by the truck driver. However, certain functions, such as steering or accelerating can be done with the assistance of the vehicle.

Level 2

At level 2, there is at least one entirely automated system. An automated system could be something like cruise control or lane-centering. Within this level, the driver is disengaged from physically operating the vehicle. In fact, the truck driver is able to release his or her hands off the steering wheel while simultaneously releasing their foot off the acceleration pedal. However, a truck driver should always still be cautious and ready to take control of the vehicle at any moment.

Level 3

While a driver is still required, they are able to ultimately shift safety-critical functions to the operations of the vehicle itself. However, this shifting can and should only be done under certain weather and environmental conditions. Ideally, when conditions are harsh or severe, a truck driver will be needed to take control of the vehicle for safety.

Level 4

At level 4, the truck is able to perform any and all safety-critical driving functions on its own without any assistance from the truck driver. However, similarly to level 3, this autonomous function can only be used in pristine driving conditions. Otherwise, the aid of a truck driver is necessitated.

Level 5

Here, we have a fully autonomous vehicle. This means that the performance of the truck is equal to that of a human truck driver. In the end, the truck is able to drive all on its own, regardless of environmental conditions and extreme weather.

Middleton & Meads is your ONE STOP shop for ALL of your Vehicle’s NEEDS.

Need to repair your truck of bus? Contact Middleton & Meads today! Middleton & Meads. provides quality truck and bus repair, service, and fleet management for the Baltimore, MD area. We have over 90 years of experience in the trucking industry and will provide you with customer service like you have never experienced before! If you are interested in seeing how we can help your business, give us a call at (410) 752-5588 or visit us online today! For more articles and trucking tips, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Flickr, and LinkedIn.