The first phase of operations will focus on freight routes between Dallas and Houston, as well as Fort Worth and El Paso.
“Early adopters play a pivotal role in accelerating the deployment and acceptance of autonomous technology,” said Sasko Cuklev, Head of On-Road Solutions at Volvo Autonomous Solutions. He emphasised that the partnership with DHL demonstrates the potential of autonomous trucking to enhance freight capacity and streamline supply chain operations.
Jim Monkmeyer, President of Transportation for DHL Supply Chain North America, highlighted autonomy as a cornerstone of logistics digitalisation, citing its potential to provide consistent long-haul capacity while meeting 24/7 operational requirements.
Safety is central to the design of the Volvo VNL Autonomous. The truck features redundant systems capable of maintaining control in the event of primary system failures, a critical requirement in autonomous vehicles.
The Aurora Driver, the system powering the vehicle, integrates advanced sensors such as high-resolution cameras, imaging radar, and long-range lidar, enabling safe navigation at highway speeds.
Volvo Autonomous Solutions is leveraging its extensive dealer and service networks to create an ecosystem for autonomous trucking. Key partnerships, including one with Bruckner’s Truck & Equipment in Texas, have established support points for maintenance and operational reliability.
Nils Jaeger, President of Volvo Autonomous Solutions, emphasised the importance of this infrastructure: “In addition to the autonomous truck, a cohesive support network is essential for daily operations and large-scale deployment of autonomy.”
Autonomous freight technology has the potential to transform logistics by reducing operational costs, improving efficiency, and addressing labour shortages. Monkmeyer noted that such advancements could also lead to new roles for drivers, such as remote fleet management, while improving working conditions and job satisfaction.
The partnership between Volvo Autonomous Solutions and DHL exemplifies the industry’s broader effort to integrate autonomous technology into supply chains, with the ultimate goal of achieving safer, more efficient, and resilient transport networks.