Technology
Commercial freight transportation businesses rely on data, intelligence, and novel solutions for operational efficiency. Transport Topics technology coverage investigates available technologies, real-world applications of business solutions, and the strategies necessary for advancement. News topics focus on the latest applied science, and issues range from autonomous vehicle and robotics innovations to management software, tracking and transparency, data analytics, blockchain, and the internet of things.
Starsky Robotics Exits Autonomous Truck Space
Starsky Robotics became the first self-driving truck startup to cease operations after raising an estimated $17 million in venture capital in 2018, then failing later to secure more investors, according to people familiar with the matter.
Best Carrier TMS Software in 2024: How to Choose
Transitioning from basic load board tools or spreadsheets to an advanced, integrated Transportation Management System (TMS) is a critical step for mid-sized truckload carriers aiming to scale effectively and sustain long-term competitiveness.
Maine Panel Recommends Hiking Road Funding
AUGUSTA, Maine — A commission tasked with solving Maine’s transportation funding shortfall will recommend an immediate infusion of between $20 million and $60 million while punting a range of possible solutions to the next Legislature.
Electric Vehicle Industry Thriving in Southern California, Report Says
California already is a world leader in the embryonic electric vehicle industry but needs more government help to flourish, according to a new report from the Los Angeles Economic Development Corp.
Ford Plans Electric Version of Transit Cargo Van
Ford Motor Co. plans to manufacture an electric version of its popular Transit cargo van for the 2022 model year.
Exxon Outlines Steps to Reduce Harmful Methane Emissions
NEW YORK — ExxonMobil on March 3 outlined how it is reducing the methane its operations release into the atmosphere, detailing its efforts as governments around the globe write new rules to regulate the harmful greenhouse gas.
Alphabet’s Waymo Raises $2.25 Billion for Driverless Cars
Waymo raised $2.25 billion from a slate of private equity investors, venture capitalists and automotive companies, the first time Alphabet Inc.’s autonomous vehicle unit has taken outside funds.
Majority of Promising AI Startups Are Still Based in the US
The most promising startups using artificial intelligence are U.S.-based companies working in the fields of health care, retail and transportation, according to a study that looked at budding AI companies around the world.
Nikola Plans Merger With Publicly Traded VectoIQ Acquisition Corp.
Nikola Corp. announced plans to merge with VectoIQ Acquisition Corp., a publicly traded special-purpose acquisition company, to speed up Nikola’s production of zero-emissions commercial vehicles.
FMCSA Announces Plans for March 19 Safety Summit
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration is planning a Safety Summit on March 19 for motor carriers, drivers, safety technology developers and users, federal and state partners, and safety advocate groups to share ideas on improving truck safety.
Secretary Elaine Chao: Consumers Will Be Key in Determining AV Technology
Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao recently asserted that the American consumer will have a lot to say in determining the course of autonomous vehicles. Here's your Capitol Agenda look at the week ahead for trucking on Capitol Hill.