Volvo Autonomous Solutions (V.A.S.) and DHL Supply Chain are reshaping freight transportation in the US with the launch of autonomous operations.
These operations use the Volvo VNL Autonomous, a production-ready truck powered by the Aurora Driver.
Why does this matter? This partnership between V.A.S. and DHL showcases how innovation can address critical challenges in the logistics industry.
Volvo paving the way for autonomous freight
This marks a key step in testing the entire system needed for large-scale autonomous transport:
Safety first: A safety driver will oversee operations to ensure smooth performance and integration.
Initial routes: Freight will be transported on two key lanes: Dallas to Houston and Fort Worth to El Paso.
Collaboration for a smarter supply chain
Sasko Cuklev, head of on-road solutions at Volvo Autonomous Solutions says: “Early adopters play a pivotal role in accelerating the deployment and acceptance of autonomous technology, enabling us to validate both safety and operational performance.”
Cuklev adds that the 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.
Jim Monkmeyer, president of transportation for DHL Supply Chain North America says: “Autonomy is a key enabler in advancing the digital transformation across the logistics sector by providing reliable long-haul capacity.”
Redefining safety in autonomous freight
The Volvo VNL Autonomous embodies Volvo’s long-standing commitment to safety, featuring built-in redundancy for critical systems.
In autonomous trucks, redundancy replaces the human driver’s backup role by automatically taking control if the primary system encounters an issue, ensuring safe operations at all times.
Advanced Technology: This approach is powered by Volvo’s partnership with Aurora, whose cutting-edge technology equips the truck to safely navigate its surroundings.
The Aurora Driver uses high-resolution cameras, imaging radar, and proprietary long-range lidar to enable safe, reliable operations at highway speeds.
Volvo building autonomy beyond the truck
Nils Jaeger, president of Volvo Autonomous Solutions says:“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.”
V.A.S. teamed up with Bruckner’s Truck & Equipment and key Volvo Trucks dealers in Texas to set up support and service points for the Volvo VNL Autonomous, ensuring uptime for future autonomous fleets.
ALSO READ: Explainer: How Waymo’s autonomous vehicles improve road safety
Photo Credit: Volvo
About the author
Sharl is a qualified journalist. He has over 10 years’ experience in the media industry, including positions as an editor of a magazine and Business Editor of a daily newspaper. Sharl also has experience in logistics specifically operations, where he worked with global food aid organisations distributing food into Africa. Sharl enjoys writing business stories and human interest pieces.
