Autonomous trucking: revolution in motion or another overrated promise?

Autonomous trucking is back in the spotlight. With billions pouring into AI-driven transport technology, expanding pilot programs, and major U.S. freight corridors already testing self-driving trucks, the question is getting louder:

Are we watching the early stages of the biggest shakeup in trucking history… or just another overhyped pitch?

According to Stansberry Research, autonomous freight could spur a $600-billion disruption by 2035. A bold forecast — far from guaranteed — but one that mirrors the appetite of startups, OEMs, investors, and major carriers betting big on autonomy.

Cutting-edge progress, massive challenges

Progress is real:

• increasingly powerful perception and safety systems;

• daily autonomous runs across southern U.S. corridors;

• new alliances between technology developers and major fleets.

But so are the barriers:

• regulatory frameworks still incomplete and inconsistent;

• unresolved liability questions;

• public acceptance and workforce resistance;

• enormous integration and transition costs.

Is the future truly driverless?

Some analysts see autonomy as a historic turning point — the trucking equivalent of moving from horses to internal combustion engines. Others warn that the industry may be repeating the hype cycle of a decade ago: ambitious promises, limited large-scale deployment.

One thing is clear: trucking is undergoing rapid transformation, driven by labour shortages, cost pressures, and surging innovation.

So, is the future really driverless?

Only time — and the industry’s willingness to adapt — will tell.