New Lorry Platooning Trials Set to Roll Out in the UK
Picture this: up to three trucks following each other almost like a row of marching soldiers, all zinc-slicking through the countryside while a single driver takes the wheel of the front vehicle. That’s the gist of the new lorry platooning trials approved by the UK government – a high-tech experiment aimed at trimming fuel costs and cutting emissions, one kilometre at a time.
What’s the Plan?
“Self‑steered” lorries—partially autonomous trucks equipped to motor in coaxial sync—will be tested on a dedicated track before the trials hit real roads by the end of this year. The Transport Research Laboratory (TRL) will be steering the experiment.
- Three trucks per convoy
- Acceleration and braking controlled by the lead lorry’s driver
- Every truck always has a human ready to jump back in if something goes sideways
- Goal: tighter spacing; the front truck “punches” the air out of the way, making the stack more aerodynamic and efficient
Why It Matters
Transport Minister Paul Maynard underscored the dual benefit: “Investing in these technologies will make life easier for everyone.” He added that platooning could lower fuel bills for businesses and help regular road users with reduced emissions and less congestion. The trick is proving the system works safely on the UK’s more complex roadways.
Global Confidence, Local Hurdles
Across Europe and the United States, similar trials have clicked successfully on wide, uninterrupted highways. But in the UK, the puzzle becomes more intricate:
- There are tens of thousands of motorways sporting a high frequency of exits and entries
- AA President Edmund King flags that such a route structure requires platoons to split or pull over with dangerous delays for on‑ramp traffic
- “We want the same fuel‑saving dream, but the particular makeup of the UK motorway network raises concerns.” – King
Next Steps & Final Thoughts
The trials will kick off on a closed track, and if the pilots prove safe and effective, the convoy will span major roads toward the year’s end. The transition might mean you’ll see a trio of trucks weaving past you in one seamless lane, but readers are advised:
- Keep your eyes peeping at the horizon—conversations about driverless convoys are still a work in progress.
- Take a back‑up plan for road‑exit breaks, in case the platoon needs to pull out.
- Imagine the future: fewer fuel stops, cleaner air, and perhaps a boost to the Down‑Under economy of the UK’s freight network.
At the end of the day, the UK could turn into an example of how smart technology can share the road while still staying sensor‑smart, driver‑savvy, and community–friendly.
