DHL and Volvo’s Autonomous Trucks Could Revolutionize Long-Haul Freight

DHL Supply Chain is taking a significant step toward the future of transportation by launching autonomous operations in the United States, powered by the Volvo VNL Autonomous and the Aurora Driver. In this Q&A, Jason Gillespie, Senior Director of Continuous Improvement and Innovation at DHL Supply Chain, discusses the collaboration with Volvo and the potential impact of autonomous transport at scale.

Supply Chain 24/7: What prompted DHL Supply Chain to pursue autonomous trucking technology?

Jason Gillespie: We believe autonomous vehicles are a key enabler in addressing our goals, such as safety, performance, and emissions reduction.  Autonomous transport can accelerate delivery times and optimize supply chains, promoting a more resilient transport network.

SC247: What challenges did DHL and Volvo face in launching autonomous operations, and how were they addressed?

JG: It was important that we identified the perfect fit for testing, such as a forward-thinking customer willing to partner in this program and the right lanes suitable for this kind of movement. Additionally, while not a challenge but more of a milestone, VAS needed to build their VNL trucks and get production up and running. It was also important to us that we tested real AV trucks, not the modified Class 8s that are typically fitted with AV tech.

SC247: How were the initial routes (Dallas to Houston and Fort Worth to El Paso) selected?

JG: Texas has an ideal geography and climate for autonomous vehicle testing. It is also home to several major trucking routes suitable for automation. Texas is an important state in trucking, moving more freigh…

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