Legislative-Regulatory Impact Mission Portfolio: Understanding the Future of Autonomous OTR Trucking

Situation

A logistics company approached Aurora GPS to understand the impact of autonomous vehicle laws and regulations on the over-the-road trucking industry. The company had tracked (and influenced) OTR legislation at both the state and federal level in the United States for many years, but autonomous driving rules were a new area, largely driven by Silicon Valley and not the traditional lobbyist groups.

Method

Through a series of interviews with knowledgeable parties, Aurora GPS was able to provide perspective. Yes, autonomous legislation was on its way, but many lawmakers did not yet feel like the technology was “sufficiently proven” to ensure safety, especially in diverse (nationwide) road conditions where OTR truckers need to operate. Local and state legislation may happen first, and Aurora GPS was able to provide the firm with “places to watch” for advancements in law or regulation on this front to serve as early warning.

Results

By having this information well in advance of actual laws or regulations, the firm has been able to work ahead to shape the opinions of key lawmakers and regulatory bodies as well as aggressively pursue R&D opportunities to ensure it is prepared for a possible driverless future in OTR trucking.