Autonomous vehicles have been a popular topic of conversation on this blog. We have discussed what they are and their many potential applications as they are used more frequently throughout the country. Although we aren’t all operating fleets of autonomous vehicles yet, we have made great strides in the field of autonomous vehicle technology. Let’s explore where we stand in 2023 regarding this exciting new field.
Three Major Strides
In the last couple of years, autonomous vehicles have seen great success.
Legislation has been a great concern for those promoting the use of autonomous vehicles. Therefore, it comes as news for great celebration that in 2022, Pennsylvania became the latest state to green-light the use of driverless vehicles. Right now, 34 states have passed legislation on autonomous vehicles– an impressive amount!
We are also beginning to see the use of autonomous vehicles in everyday life. In San Francisco, you can hail a driverless taxi to get across town. Two companies offer this service: Waymo and Cruise.
Of course, we aren’t leaving fleets out of the equation. Autonomous vehicles have made their way into the logistics sector as well. Companies like Corona and Ikea have used driverless trucks to deliver their goods. Your local Girl Scout troop’s cookies may have even been on an autonomous truck this year!
5 Predictions for Autonomous Vehicles
No. 1: The Rise of Independent Companies
Independent companies have a couple of significant benefits that will support them in the AV sector. First, they have more operational freedom than big corporations. Secondly, precedence has shown that regulatory bodies like the DOJ and FTC tend to favor independent companies. Therefore, you may see new companies coming out of the woodwork in regards to autonomous vehicles, rather than big corporations finding great success.
No. 2: Technological Breakthroughs to Continue
Autonomous vehicle technology is hot right now. Therefore, it’s not likely that we will see breakthroughs slow down. Businesses are eager to see AVs commercialized, and will work quickly towards that goal. Autonomous vehicles are a massive undertaking, and may be several years in the works, but progress will be steady along the way.
No. 3: More States to Pass Legislation
Right now, the U.S. is the leader in autonomous vehicle technology. If we want to remain there, we will need to continue to pass legislation that supports this technology’s implementation. The laws surrounding autonomous vehicles are complicated and will need to be adjusted as the technology is implemented. However, the task must be taken very seriously for this technology to be a success.
No. 4: Once Implemented, Autonomous Vehicles Will Be Adopted Quickly
Right now, the use for autonomous vehicles is focused in two areas: ride-hailing and logistics. Once this technology is widespread, predictions are that it will be adopted very quickly in both of these sectors. For example, the trucking industry is suffering from a major labor shortage. The AV industry may be exactly what we are looking for to solve this significant issue.
No. 5: Autonomous Vehicles Will Serve as a Major Benefit to Trucking Companies
Autonomous vehicles may sound scary to drivers in the trucking industry. But the fact is that these vehicles are safer and more efficient than our current system. And trucking jobs will simply shift into new responsibilities rather than disappear. Autonomous vehicles will revolutionize the trucking industry as we know it and make an immense difference to fleets both small and large.
Keep Up with the Latest on Fleet Technology
Operating a fleet can keep you busy, and it can be hard to keep up with everything going on in the industry. Don’t worry, that’s why Azuga is here to help. We follow all the latest updates and will keep you informed on everything you need to know. Just check our blog regularly to stay up to date!
Glossary Entry: Autonomous Vehicle
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