Release: Cooperative Truck Platooning System on-road trials successfully conclude in Alberta
Calgary, AB (March 17, 2022) – The Alberta Motor Transport Association (AMTA) is celebrating the successful completion of Canada’s first on-road commercial truck platooning trials. For years, researchers have studied simulations and test track data to assess the potential benefits of platooning technologies. Now, the AMTA – together with its industry partners – will be able to analyze accurate data collected during real-world platooning operations.
Through 21 trial runs, in which 23,115 km were traveled, nine Bison Transport drivers and 10 dedicated researchers monitored collection of 13 data sources.
“The world is changing at a rapid pace and so is technology,” says Chris Nash, AMTA President. “Trials like Cooperative Truck Platooning System (CTPS) are critical to Alberta’s economy and competitiveness while improving safety and efficiency across the supply chain. Not only is platooning safe and efficient, but it is also a greener way to ensure goods get to where they need to go. I applaud our partners as this data will be key for the industry moving forward.”
Prior to on-road operations, CTPS underwent extensive track testing at Transport Canada’s Motor Vehicle Test Centre in Blainville, Que. Results were used to validate how the automated system responded to different situations, such as the driver of the lead truck braking abruptly, or when another vehicle cuts in between the platooning trucks.
“We are pleased to have worked with the Alberta Motor Transport Association and its partners on this exciting project. Truck platooning will help the trucking industry advance new technologies that can improve safety and efficiency, while also reducing congestion and greenhouse gases,” said Canada’s Minister of Transport, the Honourable Omar Alghabra.
On-road trials began September 2021. The trucks, affectionately dubbed “Daisy” and “Lily,” are 2020 Peterbilt 579s equipped with Pronto AI’s Co-pilot System. Transport Canada provided $2.3 million in funding for this project. Support was also provided by Alberta Transportation and through research partnerships Bison Transport, Pronto, the University of Alberta, Solaris Fatigue Management, Tantus, PMG Technologies and Esso Commercial Cardlock.
“Alberta’s government applauds the Alberta Motor Transport Association’s launch of road tests for its Cooperative Truck Platooning Systems,” said The Hon. Rajan Sawhney, Alberta’s minister of Transportation, in September 2021. “Technology and innovation like this will diversify our province’s economy and attract investment, two key pillars of Alberta’s Recovery Plan.”
“Safety has become a cornerstone of who Bison Transport is identified with throughout our industry,” Bison Transport said in a written statement from September 2021. “This initiative aligns perfectly with this core operating philosophy, and we are pleased to be the dedicated carrier for these trials. We would like to recognize our professional driver volunteers who have committed to participating, effectively paving the way for the future development and eventual deployment of this technology on our roadways.”
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About Alberta Motor Transport Association (AMTA)
The Alberta Motor Transport Association is a not-for-profit, advocacy and safety training association that functions as The Voice, The Standard and The Resource for commercial transportation in Alberta. For more than 80 years, our work has encompassed a broad range of environmental, social, economic, safety and compliance matters that impact provincial highways. Research and innovation are now at the forefront of our projects, enabling AMTA to bring key stakeholders together to lead research and develop new technologies that will significantly enhance the industry while reducing human and environmental impacts.
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