The Montana State Legislature is anticipated to introduce legislation regarding the use and regulation of truck platooning in Montana during the next legislative session in 2025. MDT Planning Division expects to be requested by the State Legislature to provide expert guidance on how the emerging technology of truck platooning will impact transportation infrastructure and systems in Montana. The rapid evolution of transportation technologies, including the emergence of truck platoons, across infrastructure, vehicles, and systems, indicates a future characterized by intelligent infrastructure, interconnected vehicles, and autonomous driving. Projections indicate a gradual yet significant adoption of automated driving systems, with forecasts suggesting that by 2050, autonomous vehicles and advanced transportation technologies could represent 50% of the US vehicle fleet. While implementing truck platooning provides several potential advantages benefiting surface transportation, the trucking industry, and overall economic growth, it also introduces a host of new challenges for MDT to navigate. These challenges primarily revolve around the uncertainty regarding how truck platooning will impact existing highway infrastructure and the traveling public. Consequently, this research project will proactively prepare MDT for this emerging technology by identifying the needs for efficient testing and deployment of truck platoons, and evaluating the anticipated challenges associated with its implementation.
This research project will help prepare MDT for the legislative session by identifying the requirements and limitations associated with operating truck platoons along with a thorough examination of the multifaceted impacts. The objectives of this research project include reviewing the current state-of-the-practice regarding national, state, and local regulatory frameworks and legislation pertaining to truck platooning. This analysis will serve to pinpoint infrastructure, traffic management policy, roadway design, and standardization needs essential for facilitating the deployment of truck platooning. The research objectives will identify how truck platoons could impact the operation and safety of the highway system. The goal of this research is to provide practical guidance for MDT decision-makers to respond to the State Legislature regarding inquiries on how truck platooning could impact Montana highways and the traveling public.
Proposed: Research Problem Statement
Project Overview
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