Labor shortages, the rise of stringent regulations, and the ever-climbing fuel prices... Sounds like the perfect recipe for a crisis, doesn't it? That's just what trucking companies in VA have found themselves facing over the last few years. There's an argument to be made that this is why a handful of innovations are currently taking the industry by storm:
Hybrid Powertrains: Like the name suggests, a hybrid powertrain is one that combines the reliability of a standard diesel motor with the 'cleanliness' of electricity. This has emerged as the most feasible option for truckers, not just due to the downsized components, but also because it allows the use of 6X2 axles. Besides, new concepts are in development that will address the biggest drawback of electrified vehicles: the humongous batteries.
Platooning: Falling under the same umbrella as autonomous trucking, platooning involves the bunching up of several trucks to form a caravan. The frontmost vehicle then acts as a leader, specifically by establishing a pattern for the entire platoon. Although the concept is yet to get rid of human drivers, it has helped in addressing congestion and safety concerns. It's also said to be most effective when embraced widely.
Embedded Telematics: As a concept that amalgamates GPS tracking and communication functions, telematics offers plenty of opportunities to improve the way fleets are managed. For instance, data can be extracted from each vehicle's control module and analyzed to improve its operational cycle. The technology can also be used to influence driver behavior in a way that supports the company's initiatives.
The haulage industry is poised for a revolution, a sizeable part of which will revolve around the growing levels of innovation within the larger transport sector. Admittedly, it will take time before the emerging technologies become ready for commercial application. In the meantime, however, there are some steps you could take to make yours a more efficient, successful company:
Invest in Quality: Just as a ship captain needs competent hands on deck, quality drivers are of utmost importance in your profitability. Of course, you'll want to do whatever is necessary to keep them once they've joined your team. This will cost you a pretty penny, but is definitely worthwhile.
Remember Those Check-ups: It's very important that you keep up with all elements of your maintenance program. If that seems obvious, so should the need to have scheduling features in your fleet management software. This will eliminate the risk of forgetting when tasks fall due.
Watch Tire Pressures: Obvious as this seems, the impact of under-inflated tires on fleet performance is so significant that it's worth repeating. So don't shy away from reminding your drivers about the need to maintain the correct tire pressures. This goes hand-in-hand with the need for regular checkups.
As technology advances, so does its importance to the transport industry as a whole. Taking the time to learn what it has to offer will put you in a better position going forward. Just don't let go of the old fashioned techniques you use to optimize your operations.
Hybrid Powertrains: Like the name suggests, a hybrid powertrain is one that combines the reliability of a standard diesel motor with the 'cleanliness' of electricity. This has emerged as the most feasible option for truckers, not just due to the downsized components, but also because it allows the use of 6X2 axles. Besides, new concepts are in development that will address the biggest drawback of electrified vehicles: the humongous batteries.
Platooning: Falling under the same umbrella as autonomous trucking, platooning involves the bunching up of several trucks to form a caravan. The frontmost vehicle then acts as a leader, specifically by establishing a pattern for the entire platoon. Although the concept is yet to get rid of human drivers, it has helped in addressing congestion and safety concerns. It's also said to be most effective when embraced widely.
Embedded Telematics: As a concept that amalgamates GPS tracking and communication functions, telematics offers plenty of opportunities to improve the way fleets are managed. For instance, data can be extracted from each vehicle's control module and analyzed to improve its operational cycle. The technology can also be used to influence driver behavior in a way that supports the company's initiatives.
The haulage industry is poised for a revolution, a sizeable part of which will revolve around the growing levels of innovation within the larger transport sector. Admittedly, it will take time before the emerging technologies become ready for commercial application. In the meantime, however, there are some steps you could take to make yours a more efficient, successful company:
Invest in Quality: Just as a ship captain needs competent hands on deck, quality drivers are of utmost importance in your profitability. Of course, you'll want to do whatever is necessary to keep them once they've joined your team. This will cost you a pretty penny, but is definitely worthwhile.
Remember Those Check-ups: It's very important that you keep up with all elements of your maintenance program. If that seems obvious, so should the need to have scheduling features in your fleet management software. This will eliminate the risk of forgetting when tasks fall due.
Watch Tire Pressures: Obvious as this seems, the impact of under-inflated tires on fleet performance is so significant that it's worth repeating. So don't shy away from reminding your drivers about the need to maintain the correct tire pressures. This goes hand-in-hand with the need for regular checkups.
As technology advances, so does its importance to the transport industry as a whole. Taking the time to learn what it has to offer will put you in a better position going forward. Just don't let go of the old fashioned techniques you use to optimize your operations.
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When you are searching for information about trucking companies in VA, residents can come to our web pages today. More details are available at http://www.lillytruckingva.com now.
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