Latest news with #PamBoratyn
Forbes
24-04-2025
- Automotive
- Forbes
EASE Logistics Deploys Truck Platoons On I-70 In Ohio And Indiana
A pair of platooning trucks are operating across Ohio and Indiana on Interstate 70. A pair of tractor-trailers with automated truck platooning technology began traveling Interstate 70 between Columbus, Ohio, and Indianapolis, Indiana, earlier this month. The vehicles are operated by EASE Logistics, with platooning technology provided by Kratos Defense. This logistics technology deployment is a collaboration between the Ohio Department of Transportation's DriveOhio initiative and the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) to advance the adoption of truck automation technologies in the logistics industry across the Midwest. Funded in part by a grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation, this multi-year $8.8 million project aims to deploy varying levels of automation and integrate these technologies into truck fleets' daily freight-hauling operations to evaluate the vehicle's safety and operation performance as well as highway-side factors. The majority of automated vehicle testing to date has been done in regions with warmer and more predictable weather. This is especially true for autonomous trucks, with Automated Driving Systems (ADS) developers Aurora, Bot Auto, Gatik, Plus, Torc, Volvo Autonomous Systems, and Waabi active in Texas to assess their system's performance in advance of releasing commercial autonomous trucks into the wild. Up north, Ohio and Indiana have had a sustained focus on enhancing their transportation systems, including logistics. According to the press release, 'it is crucial to assess technology performance in adverse weather conditions to deliver the safety benefits of this technology to residents in the Midwest.' 'Everything we do at ODOT is driven by safety. We're committed to reducing deaths on our roadways and vehicle automation technologies can be part of the solution,' said ODOT Director Pam Boratyn. 'Many vehicles on the road today have some degree of automated driving systems including adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and automatic braking. All of these features are designed to improve safety and reduce driver stress.' 'Harnessing truck automation technology is one of many innovative safety efforts underway at INDOT,' said INDOT Commissioner Lyndsday Quist. 'In partnership with Ohio, our goal is to create a safer, lower-stress environment for all drivers.' Increasing Driver Safety The platooning system being operated by EASE Logistics electronically links the two vehicles and allows the driver of the lead vehicle to control the speed and direction of the second truck, enabling it to precisely follow the path of the leader. During portions of the I-70 trips, the follower truck will automatically steer, accelerate, and brake, supporting safe, efficient operation and consistent vehicle coordination. Professional drivers will be in the driver's seat of both trucks throughout the deployment and can turn off the technology system and take over if needed. 'At EASE, we're committed to driving innovation in logistics with safety at the core of everything we do,' said Peter Coratola Jr., Founder & CEO at EASE. 'Our work on the I-70 project is a clear example of that commitment—we implemented a Crawl/Walk/Run pre-deployment strategy and required our drivers to complete 260 hours of intensive training to ensure they were fully prepared. We're focused on creating meaningful change in the industry, guided by a clear vision and a deep responsibility to lead. Through projects like this, we're not only advancing innovation—we're helping establish EASE and our region as national leaders in transportation.' EASE is the only over-the-road fleet in the USA operating a truck platoon on the highway. I asked Mr. Coratola what is attractive to EASE about truck platooning. 'Being at the front lines of innovation is central for us, particularly when it comes to safety. This Drive Ohio project is the doorway to for us to evaluate platooning operations,' he said. 'Platooning could be available in the next few years to support everyday use cases. Importantly, our focus is not to get drivers out of seats. This is about increasing driver safety.' 'At Kratos, we have adapted advanced automated truck platooning technology —originally developed for the U.S. military—to address critical challenges facing commercial logistics, agriculture, energy, and mining sectors, all vital to national security.' said Maynard Factor, VP of Business Development at Kratos Defense. 'This project offers a real-world opportunity to demonstrate how proven automated driving systems can increase safety, strengthen supply chain resilience, and ensure economic vitality. Operating along the I-70 corridor between Ohio and Indiana enables us to showcase performance in complex, all-weather conditions essential to Midwest freight operations and accelerates readiness for broad adoption. This marks a significant step forward in bringing scalable, next-generation automation to the industries that keep the nation moving.' The trucks are equipped with cameras and sensors for object detection that enable the following vehicle to automatically adjust its speed, or stop, if another vehicle or object moves in between the trucks. Because the follower truck travels at a closer distance than is typical, the trucks will have a purple light on the cab that is illuminated when they're in platooning mode to alert law enforcement that they are digitally connected. 'This technology offers a complete safety system with redundancies that could make roadways safer. It is necessary that we continue to explore improving roadway safety,' said Ohio State Highway Patrol Captain Chris Kinn. 'Unlike human drivers, automated vehicles do not drive impaired, text while driving, fall asleep at the wheel, or recklessly speed. The goal of this technology is to take the human error out of the safety equation.' A Blast From The Past Evolves For The Future Truck platooning tech is not new. Almost fifteen years ago, truck platooning was the first baby step of commercial development of autonomous trucking, led by Peloton Technology. Truck manufacturers including Daimler Trucks and Volvo Group were active as well. The first phase of truck platooning consisted of drivers in each of two (or more) trucks in a string, all following one another closely enough to substantially increase fuel economy (thanks to drafting effects reducing wind drag). A second-generation system focused on close-following with the follower trucks having no driver. In all cases, there was at least one human in the loop. Development of fully autonomous trucks intended to operate with no driver on-board was initiated about ten years ago by Otto and TuSimple. Aurora, Embark, Waymo, and others jumped into the fray not long after. Platooning offered reduced fuel costs but also required truckers to adapt to a 'find-a-partner' protocol that was foreign to the trucking industry. Individual truck autonomy has been a better fit for the mainstream of long haul trucking, with the key benefit being a major reduction in operational costs when running without a driver. Investors overwhelmingly preferred individual truck autonomy. Even though the technology was highly advanced, platooning startups could not sustain their operations long enough to bring to platooning to market. Nevertheless both can co-exist. When freight flows on a particular stretch of highway are such that trucks are naturally traveling together, the benefits of platooning come into play. And, as autonomous trucks proliferate, there's no reason they can't operate in platooning mode to reduce fuel usage. Truck platooning has found new use cases and markets as well. In additional to on-highway platooning, Kratos has developed a platooning use case focused on agricultural freight operations. Also, according to the Bishop Consulting 2024 Automated Driving Industry Trends Report – Trucks, other side of the Pacific is the hotbed of truck platooning. KargoBot and are running platooning operations in China, and Hexagon is supporting mining operator Mineral Resources in hauling iron ore from an inland Australian mine to a seaport over 100 miles away. A Year's Worth Of On-Road Data The results of this year-long platooning deployment will provide an interesting data set as to system operation, reliability, and value proposition. After the deployment ends in 2026, Mr. Coratola of EASE says they will then ascertain the way forward for their operations. More To Come This summer, ODOT and INDOT plan to release a Request for Proposals for additional deployments of automated trucks in Ohio and Indiana, focusing on SAE Level 2 and Level 4 capability. More information about how to get involved is available on the Drive Ohio website. Disclosure: Richard Bishop is an Advisor to and/or an equity holder in the following companies mentioned in this article: Alphabet (Waymo), Aurora, Gatik, Plus. Additionally, he serves as an Advisor to the Drive Ohio I-70 Autonomous Corridor project.
Yahoo
22-04-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Partially automated trucks being tested on Ohio highway
COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — Drivers between Columbus and Indianapolis might notice a pair of tractor-trailers emblazoned with the motto 'The future of transportation is now' moving along Interstate 70. Beyond the visionary statement and other Ohio Department of Transportation markings on their outsides, the semi-trucks might not attract much attention. However, inside the pair of vehicles is equipment that might surprise other motorists. According to ODOT, the EASE Logistics shipping trucks are in wireless communication, using an automated driving system where one truck controls the other. York Steak House in Columbus hailed as having the nation's best steaks In a news release, the Buckeye State agency explained that the technology, called 'automated truck platooning,' is being used through a collaboration between ODOT's DriveOhio initiative and the Indiana Department of Transportation. The state offices want to gather information on using the equipment in the ever-changing elements of the Midwest's climate. 'Operating along the I-70 corridor between Ohio and Indiana enables us to showcase performance in complex, all-weather conditions essential to Midwest freight operations and accelerates readiness for broad adoption,' said Maynard Factor, VP of Business Development at Kratos Defense, maker of the system. The two trucks are electronically linked, allowing the driver of the front vehicle to control the rear vehicle 'precisely.' Using the tools, the 'lead' truck can regulate the steering, acceleration and braking of the 'follower' truck. ODOT also noted that professional operators are in the driver's seat of both vehicles. Additionally, the automation can be turned off at any point, with the live person ready to take the wheel. 'Everything we do at ODOT is driven by safety,' said ODOT Director Pam Boratyn. 'We're committed to reducing deaths on our roadways, and vehicle automation technologies can be part of the solution. Many vehicles on the road today have some degree of automated driving systems, including adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and automatic braking. All of these features are designed to improve safety and reduce driver stress.' The $8.8 million project also accounts for the possibility of another automobile moving between the trucks. Cameras and sensors can detect objects, enabling the following vehicle to adjust its speed or stop. A special purple light is used as an indicator for law enforcement, letting officers know the pair is connected when it is lit. COTA board approves study regarding making bus system free 'This technology offers a complete safety system with redundancies that could make roadways safer,' said Ohio State Highway Patrol Captain Chris Kinn. 'It is necessary that we continue to explore improving roadway safety. Unlike human drivers, automated vehicles do not drive impaired, text while driving, fall asleep at the wheel, or recklessly speed.' A grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation funds the project. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
19-04-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Automated freight trucks deployed on I-70
Two partially automated tractor-trailers began traveling on I-70 between Columbus and Indianapolis this week. [DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks] This project is from the Ohio Department of Transportation and the Indiana Department of Transportation. TRENDING STORIES: 1 hospitalized after apparent road rage shooting in Dayton 2-year-old hospitalized after being hit by a car, father says Damage reported after strong storms move through region 'Everything we do at ODOT is driven by safety. We're committed to reducing deaths on our roadways and vehicle automation technologies can be part of the solution,' said ODOT Director Pam Boratyn. 'Many vehicles on the road today have some degree of automated driving systems including adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and automatic braking. All of these features are designed to improve safety and reduce driver stress.' The trucks, from EASE Logistics, use platooning technology that allows the driver of the first vehicle to control the speed and direction of a second truck. Both trucks will still have drivers that can turn off and take over the system as needed. This $8.8 million project is partially funded by the US Department of Transportation. The goal is to integrate automation into truck fleets across Ohio. [SIGN UP: WHIO-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]
Yahoo
12-03-2025
- Yahoo
Discover Muskingum County's new rest area with rocking chairs and dog trails
COLUMBUS − The newly reconstructed rest area on Interstate 70 westbound in Muskingum County is now open to the public, according to an announcement from the Ohio Department of Transportation. The facility, part of Ohio's ongoing initiative to enhance travel safety and experience, features several upgrades, including native Ohio plants, dog trails, Ohio music and rocking chairs. The rest area also highlights nearby attractions, such as the National Road & Zane Grey Museum, where visitors can learn about the history of the National Road and author Zane Grey, who was born in Zanesville. "This investment reflects Ohio's commitment to traveler safety and promoting Ohio, The Heart of it All," said ODOT Director Pam Boratyn. "The upgraded rest area not only provides essential services but also serves as a gateway to discovering more of Ohio's attractions, promoting both tourism and local exploration." The renovation promotes the region's natural beauty and historical landmarks, featuring the Great Circle Earthworks and Octagon Earthworks, which are part of the Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks, Ohio's only UNESCO World Heritage Site. Another highlight of the region is the Y Bridge, located at the confluence of the Licking and Muskingum Rivers in downtown Zanesville. Originally developed in 1812, this historic bridge is world famous, featured in Ripley's Believe it or Not and was one of Amelia Earhart's favorite bridges in the world. The rest area also includes a universal changing station in the family restroom, offering an adjustable table in a clean, safe and private space. These tables are designed to meet the personal care needs of individuals of all heights, weights and mobility levels, providing a convenient and accessible solution for caregivers assisting those with disabilities or medical conditions. There are 29 rest areas across Ohio set to receive universal changing stations by the end of 2026. "ODOT remains focused on making travel through Ohio more convenient, comfortable and enjoyable for all visitors," said ODOT District 5 Deputy Director Jason Sturgeon. "I'm proud of the work our team has done to open this rest area on time to serve the thousands of motorists who travel along I-70 each day." This opening is part of Gov. Mike DeWine's initiative to refresh and reimagine 36 new rest areas by the end of 2026. This story was created by Jane Imbody, jimbody@ with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the information gathering, review, editing and publishing process. Learn more at This article originally appeared on Zanesville Times Recorder: New Ohio Interstate 70 rest area in Muskingum County opens
