Good day,
Last week, Volvo Trucks announced that it would soon be adding Apply CarPlay to its lineup as an optional package. More connected trucks will soon become commonplace, and maybe in the commercial transportation space, technologies such as this, Android Auto and WiFi will be welcomed additions.
But in the consumer space, it doesn’t appear as though these connected services will be utilized. A new survey by CheapCarInsurance.net found that eight out of the top ten most wanted features in automobiles are safety-related.
Side air bags, blind spot warning, emergency braking and backup cameras are highly sought-after tech. Apple CarPlay? Not so much.
According to the site, front fog lamps and rear parking sensors are more important than Bluetooth connectivity. What technologies cracked the safety stranglehold? Cruise control and USB ports.
Did you know?
That women comprise approximately 5.1% of the truck driver population, according to the Bureau of Labor statistics.
Quotable:
“When selecting a device, motor carriers should request a data file now from their ELD supplier and do their own test [on FMCSA’s online tester] to ensure ELD compliance. It’s a great way to verify if a vendor that has already self-certified has a compliant data file to transfer, per the ELD rule. If the data file does not work, do you really have an ELD?”
– John Seidl, transportation consultant with Integrated Risk Solutions, offering carriers advice when buying an ELD, in a recent interview with Heavy Duty Trucking
In other news:
Meal, rest break law up debate today in House
An appropriations bill that includes provisions that would prevent states from requiring truck drivers take meal and rest breaks according to state laws will be up for debate today in a House Appropriations hearing. (Transport Topics)
Is the electric truck today’s flip phone?
Transportation has toyed with electric vehicles for more than 100 years, so what makes the current push any different? (CCJ)
ELD compliance tool for suppliers can also benefit fleets
FMCSA has released a new online tool for ELD suppliers to test their devices to ensure they are in compliance. However, an ELD expert tells Heavy Duty Trucking magazine that fleets can use that tool as well. (Heavy Duty Trucking)
6 information management trends to follow
The process of moving goods from Point A to Point B is never simple. So, Inbound Logistics has put together six trends that are reshaping the movement of goods. (Inbound Logistics)
Creating your digital supply chain map
Top leaders in the supply chain recently gathered in London for SCM World’s 7th annual Leaders Forum to discuss the path to digitizing the supply chain. (Forbes)
Final Thoughts
With a new survey from CheapCarInsurance.net finding that consumers generally prefer safety technologies over connected technologies such as Apply CarPlay, it’s safe to wonder if commercial drivers feel the same way. We’d bet not, given the long stretches away from families and loved ones. Those connected technologies can be the connection to home, and truckers will want that.
Hammer down everyone!
