The proliferation of technology has penetrated virtually every aspect of truck design, from Bluetooth systems that enable drivers to talk on the phone safely to GPS-oriented telematics systems, computer-controlled integrated powertrains and high-pressure common-rail fuel injection systems.
Trucks increasingly are becoming rolling robots with an ever-increasing ability to “think” for themselves. This technology push has reached such unprecedented levels that several OEMs are testing fully functioning “driverless” trucks, and it appears that some level of autonomous driving functionality may become commonplace within the next 20 years.
Yet, more fleet managers are becoming less than enthusiastic concerning trucking’s technological explosion. That’s because all the new technology found on today’s commercial vehicles comes with tradeoffs – and many fleets cannot see an end to the new problems that have piggybacked these high-tech models.
The most glaring unwanted burden has been skyrocketing truck prices. OEMs point out that many of the new technologies – particularly emissions and engine systems – are the result of government mandates. The cost of developing these systems can total hundreds of millions – if not billions – in research and development costs. There is simply no way, OEMs say, they can avoid passing these costs along to fleets.
At the same time, the exponential leap in new and advanced technologies found on today’s trucks is stressing the industry’s service and support network, which already is struggling with a crippling technician shortage. There already are not enough technicians at either fleets or dealerships to handle repairs, and the few that are there are unprepared to deal with new vehicle systems coming online – especially computing and software issues.
Finally, fleet managers say, there is the issue of durability. “I talk to owner-operators leased to our fleet all the time,” says Margret Hogg, general manager of Toronto-based J.G. Drapeau, a long-haul hazmat fleet. “They all drive beautiful old trucks that are dependable day in and day out. They don’t want anything to do with all these new technologies because they run trucks that work when they need them to.”
