Automated driving, electrification and truck data-driven solutions that aim to boost ROI are three of the top themes at this year’s ATA Management Conference and Exhibition (MCE). Frankly, trucking technology typically takes top billing at this event. It’s a great place to kick the metaphorical technology tires. Already at the show, I’ve taken a ride in an automated Level 2 “Plus” system from Plus, had an electric truck conversation with Volvo Trucks North America President Peter Voorhoeve, and talked service data and technology to support the rollout of International’s S13 integrated powertrain with Göran Nyberg, executive vice president, commercial operations, Navistar. All of those videos are coming soon. While I’m cutting those together, take a virtual walk around the trade show floor.
The show opens!
Jacques DeLarochelliere, CEO, chairman, and co-founder of ISAAC Instruments, cuts the ribbon to open the ATA Management Conference and Exhibition show floor. Fleet Equipment fans may remember DeLarochelliere from a video conversation we had earlier this year discussing driver workflow.
Autonomous trucks roll out
Nearly every OEM booth sported an autonomous demo truck this year. Peterbilt’s Aurora autonomous truck is pictured above.
Volvo Trucks North America President Peter Voorhoeve discussed the future of autonomous trucks as he stood in front of Volvo Trucks autonomous demo truck. He noted that autonomous truck development “isn’t a race” between trucking technologies like electrification and said that safety is paramount and will lead the way for autonomous adoption.
Electrification energizes the show floor
Kenworth opened the hood of its battery T680E.
A show floor of solutions
Navistar rolled out its S13 integrated powertrain and made an announcement that detailed how its prepping it’s dealers service and support.
Platform Science talked about its Virtual Vehicle app experience. More on that soon….
ISAAC continued the driver workflow conversation in its booth.
Lytx announced an OEM Integration with Daimler Truck North America.
Mack Trucks displayed a model year 2023 Anthem 6×4 day cab is designed for regional haul.
The truck technology road ahead
Peterbilt teased its SuperTruck 2 at the show. Stay tuned for a walk-around video of the truck.