Volvo Autonomous Solutions (VAS) and DHL Supply Chain have taken a significant step towards transforming freight transportation with the launch of autonomous operations in the United States.
“Early adopters play a pivotal role in accelerating the deployment and acceptance of autonomous technology, enabling us to validate both safety and operational performance,” said Sasko Cuklev, head of On-Road Solutions at VAS. “Our collaboration with DHL Supply Chain exemplifies the potential of autonomy as a complementary mode of transport that increases freight capacity and optimizes supply chain efficiencies.”
According to a media release, the operations will be enabled by the purpose-built, production-ready Volvo VNL Autonomous which is powered by the Aurora Driver. The start of operations marks a critical phase in validating the full ecosystem required for autonomous transport at scale. At this stage, a safety driver will be present to monitor performance and ensure seamless integration into existing logistic networks. Freight will initially be hauled on two lanes, Dallas to Houston and Fort Worth to El Paso.
A Strategic Alliance for Innovation
“Autonomy is a key enabler in advancing the digital transformation across the logistics sector by providing reliable long-haul capacity, said Jim Monkmeyer, president of Transportation for DHL Supply Chain North America. “Our long-standing partnership with Volvo has been instrumental in aligning their autonomous transport solutions with our 24/7 operational demands. Volvo’s legacy of safety and relentless pursuit of innovation make them an ideal partner in our journey to elevate trucking efficiency and deliver greater value to our customers.”
Uncompromising Commitment to Safety
Staying true to Volvo’s long-standing commitment to safety, the Volvo VNL Autonomous is designed from the ground up with built-in redundancy for critical systems. In autonomous trucks, redundancy replaces the backup provided by a human driver with systems that can automatically take control in the rare case of primary systems encountering an issue, ensuring safe operations, according to the release.
The release also noted that this safety approach is further strengthened by Volvo’s close partnership with Aurora, whose sophisticated and robust technology enables the Volvo VNL Autonomous to safely navigate the world around it. The Aurora Driver is equipped with powerful sensors, including high-resolution cameras, imaging radar, and proprietary long-range lidar that allow for safe autonomous operations at highway speeds.
An Ecosystem Approach to Real-World Autonomy
“As part of the Volvo Group, we have access to industry leading product development, world-class manufacturing and a mature dealer and service network,” said Nils Jaeger, president of VAS. “For a large-scale deployment of autonomy, in addition to the autonomous truck, there also needs to be a cohesive and seamless support network of surrounding infrastructure, which creates a comprehensive autonomous ecosystem that enables daily operations.”
To ensure uptime for future autonomous fleets, VAS has leveraged the industry and transport knowledge of key Volvo Trucks’ dealers across Texas to establish critical support and service points for the Volvo VNL Autonomous.
Investing in the Future of Freight
Autonomy is set to revolutionize the transport industry by lowering operational costs, increasing efficiency, and enhancing safety. With 24/7 capabilities, autonomous transport can accelerate delivery times and optimize supply chains, promoting a more resilient transport network, according to the release.
“Autonomous trucks can also offer drivers new opportunities, such as remote monitoring and management of fleets while also addressing ongoing labor challenges,” Monkmeyer said. “Additionally, autonomous trucks can reduce the physical and mental strain on drivers, leading to improved quality of life and increased job satisfaction.”
Strategic partnerships like that of VAS and DHL Supply Chain are essential for leveraging resources and expertise to earn regulatory and public trust and acceptance of autonomous technologies—and ultimately, to deliver on the full promise of autonomy, according to the release.
About Volvo Autonomous Solutions
The autonomous transport solution offered by Volvo Autonomous Solutions includes a vehicle purpose-built for autonomous driving, a virtual driver, required infrastructure, operations and uptime support as well as a cloud solution that controls the transport system and manages logistics flows. The solutions developed by Volvo Autonomous Solutions are tailor-made for each customer’s needs are intended to make their operations safer, and more productive and sustainable.
Dana Guthrie is an award-winning journalist who has been featured in multiple newspapers, books and magazines across the globe. She is currently based in the Atlanta, Georgia, area.
