European Truck Platooning Challenge Conference HGV Platooning Trial in the UK Ian Thompson Senior Technology Advisor Highways England

Why Test Platooning in the UK? To establish whether the benefits of platooning can be realised on UK roads. To inform policy development on managing and operating platoons on the UK Road Network. To contribute to the Europe-wide R&D effort, with the aim to facilitate further development. In accordance with the UK Government Budget 2016 to “carry out trials of truck platooning on the strategic road network”* * Budget 2016 report HM Treasury March 2016

Will Platooning Work in the UK? UK Feasibility Study completed in 2013 HGV Platooning is feasible on UK roads. But, in the context of the British Road Network… – Distance between transport hubs; – Distance between junctions; – Congestion hotspots; …Recommended a trial in order to assess Platooning in UK: – Measure and assess fuel economy and emissions; – Investigate commercial viability; – Assess interactions with other road traffic;

What is the Aim of the UK Trial? To investigate the opportunities and obstacles for Platooning that are specific to UK roads. To explore and evaluate the possible benefits to domestic and international Operators, and Network Managers. To guide future research into Platooning and Connected and Autonomous Vehicles.

What are the Objectives of a UK Trial? Sponsored by UK Department for Transport (DfT) and Highways England, to demonstrate the impacts on: 1.Vehicle safety 2.Road safety 3.Network operation and infrastructure 4.Network management 5.Fuel efficiency, carbon savings and the environment 6.Driver behaviour and attitudes 7.Vehicle maintenance 8.Commercial benefits 9.Economic benefits

What are the Next Steps? Commence a phased UK Platooning Trial Establish the Project Team Driver and vehicle preparation Trials on the road For more information, please contact the UK Department for Transport.