COLUMBUS, Ohio & INDIANAPOLIS, Indiana – A groundbreaking initiative to advance truck automation technology in the Midwest began today as two tractor-trailers equipped with automated truck platooning technology started traveling Interstate 70 between Columbus, Ohio and Indianapolis, Indiana. The deployment, a collaboration between the Ohio Department of Transportation’s DriveOhio initiative and the Indiana Department of Transportation, aims to enhance logistics efficiency and safety.
“For decades, Ohio and Indiana have leveraged their geography and world-class transportation system to become leaders in logistics,” said Pam Boratyn, Director of ODOT. “Everything we do at ODOT is driven by safety. We’re committed to reducing deaths on our roadways and vehicle automation technologies can be part of the solution.”
The trucks, operated by EASE Logistics, are equipped with platooning technology from Kratos Defense. This technology electronically links the two vehicles, allowing the lead driver to control the speed and direction of the second truck. The follower truck can automatically steer, accelerate, and brake, ensuring safe and efficient operation. Professional drivers remain in both trucks to take control if necessary.
“At Kratos, we have adapted advanced automated truck platooning technology—originally developed for the U.S. military—to address critical challenges facing commercial logistics,” said Maynard Factor, VP of Business Development at Kratos Defense. “This project offers a real-world opportunity to demonstrate how proven automated driving systems can increase safety, strengthen supply chain resilience, and ensure economic vitality.”…