The adoption of autonomous vehicles (AVs) is gaining momentum in North Dakota’s industries, with major players such as Volvo, Daimler, Walmart, FedEx, and Amazon embracing the technology. While AVs have made headlines in the taxi service sector, their use in industrial applications, including trucking, farming, and manufacturing, is on the rise.
Richard Bishop, an industry consultant, shared his experience with AVs dating back to 1991 when he rode in an automated Army Humvee. He emphasized that AVs have evolved beyond mere science projects and are now being integrated into various sectors.
In southeastern North Dakota, the Minn-Dak Farmers Cooperative, facing a shortage of drivers, has partnered with Florida-based military contractor Kratos Defense to incorporate AVs into their operations. Kratos’ “platoon” system allows a lead driver to guide autonomous follower trucks, reducing the need for additional drivers. While current regulations require a safety driver in the follower trucks, Kratos aims to eliminate this requirement in the coming years.
Regulatory challenges surround the expansion of AVs, with limited state-level rules and no federal regulations in place yet. Labor unions, such as the Teamsters, propose stricter regulations, including the presence of a human operator in all AVs. However, proponents argue that AVs will create jobs and enhance safety.
The lack of industry standards and data on real-world deployment pose additional hurdles for regulators. Weather conditions, cybersecurity, and the reliability of artificial intelligence are also areas of concern. However, industry experts believe that these challenges can be overcome through redundancy and continuous improvement.
Autonomous vehicles are expected to benefit rural and tribal communities in North Dakota, addressing issues such as an aging population and a shrinking workforce. The agricultural and energy sectors, which heavily rely on trucking, are exploring the use of AVs for transportation and emissions reduction.
While cautious in their approach, companies like Minn-Dak are optimistic about the potential of AVs. The slow and steady integration of this technology will allow for a better understanding of its capabilities and ensure the safety of both workers and the public.
Overall, the growth of AVs in North Dakota’s industries signifies a shift towards automation and efficiency. As regulations catch up and technology continues to advance, AVs are poised to play a significant role in transforming transportation and logistics operations.