On-road platooning trial to start later this year
The first phase of on-road truck platooning trials are scheduled to take place later this year, according to Fusion Processing, whose CAVstar optical and radar sensors will gather data on how other drivers behave around the platooning trucks.
The £8.1 million trial, named HelmUK and funded by the Department for Transport, will form part of regular DHL operations using three DAF trucks.
The on-road trial will follow completion of a programme of driving simulations, driver training and test track trials over the coming months.
The platooning system is designed to enable three trucks to travel safely in close proximity, at speed, with the lead driver controlling the speed, acceleration and braking of all three trucks. Use of platooning has the potential to greatly increase fuel efficiency, reduce carbon emissions for trucks and improve safety.
A bespoke version of Fusion Processing’s CAVstar system has been fitted to the DAF HGVs. CAVstar optical and radar sensors will gather data on how other drivers behave around the platooning trucks. This data, which will be analysed by TRL, will provide critical information on safety matters and how other drivers respond to trucks using this new technology.
HelmUK partners include: Apollo Vehicle Safety, DAF, DHL, Costain, Fusion Processing, Millbrook Proving Ground, Ricardo, TNO, TransportPR, Transport Research Laboratory, Transport Safety Catapult, VisionTrack.