Focusing on the Autonomous Relay Convoy driver

Locomation is working with carriers to understand the positive impact that the Autonomous Relay Convoy^SM (ARC) system will have on their existing driver workforce, enabling them to integrate this revolutionary technology into their daily operations. 

The pair of tractors that make up the ARC operationally look like “team” drivers to many carriers, just without the burden of a shared cabin space. Enabling drivers to operate from fixed relay points, Locomation will have a game-changing impact on the quality of life for drivers by providing them with fixed schedules, static routes and dependable operations. 

“We believe this turns the driving job into a more regular, safer, higher paying and more respected position,” said CEO Darrel Wilson of Wilson Logistics. “This leads to a higher quality of life for the driver, on and off the road, by elevating their work-life balance.”

Locomation’s customers — including PGT Trucking and Wilson Logistics — are planning for the future now. These companies are making decisions around several facets of the ARC landscape, including:

• How they are developing their ARC driver selection process, 
• How they see ARC integrating with their current operations,
• And the benefits ARC will have for their drivers’ quality of life. 

In preparing for pilot operations, in addition to helping to design the autonomous driver training program, Locomation is supporting carriers with screening criteria to use as they scale their operations. 

The perks of the ARC system are a strong pull for more drivers, many of whom crave both the cutting-edge reputation and the personal stability that the new system promises. With this anticipated interest, early adopters have started thinking about the kind of drivers who would be best suited for these coveted roles. 

“We expect the ARC driver to be better than your average truck driver,” Wilson said. “We expect the ARC driver to be one that is harder working and more polished. A driver that appreciates the benefits this technology can bring to the driving job. This is not a driver, but rather a commercial vehicle pilot.”

PGT Trucking Chief Innovation Officer, Paul Martin, echoed this sentiment. The company sent out a call for applications across its fleet to gauge interest in the program, and the feedback received from their experienced drivers was impressive.

“From the responses we received, we looked at each driver’s tenure, revenue, GeoTab scores, risk/incidents and overall safety records,” Martin said. “Each driver’s fleet manager was interviewed as well to learn about the driver’s personality and customer service skills, as these individuals will be ambassadors for both PGT and our partners. We have seen interest from drivers of all ages and demographics who truly feel that these new, innovative technologies are the future, and they want to be a part of the team leading the way in the industry. ”

“The general driving population can be skeptical of new technology,” said Wilson. “The fear is always job security when any type of autonomy is introduced.”

But the ARC system does not aim to eliminate drivers. Instead, the technology is intended to use each driver’s time more efficiently, making carriers more profitable while simultaneously improving quality of life for drivers. 

Companies looking to implement this cutting-edge technology have already begun carefully selecting their first fleet of drivers. Now is the time to join the future of autonomous trucking.

Learn more about how Locomation is leading the future of AV trucking.