‘Platooning’ trucks could be tested on Australian roads, with a national body indicating it is interested in the benefits of partly-automated transport.

The National Transport Commission (NTC) has cleared the way for a possible examination of new ‘platooning’ technologies, which link series of trucks together with wireless technology.

The platoon of trucks is controlled by the leading vehicle, with the following vehicles pulling together in close formation to reduce wind resistance and save fuel.

Test footage has shown up from experiments with various brands in Europe and the US, and the technology is clearly becoming more dynamic and usable.

A recent NTC document says the group will be looking at new ways to boost productivity in road transport as part of its new Strategic Plan.

The NTC says it will be “exploring how Australia can best prepare for the introduction of autonomous road and rail vehicles,” its statement said.

In Europe, the Netherlands has launched its own five-year testing program, bringing together authorities from the government and transport industries to support the development of platooning technology.

In the US, engineering firm Peloton Technology has been testing similar equipment on closed Nevada roads.

Peloton claims placing two trucks in close series reduces wind resistance for both, resulting in a 4.5 per cent fuel saving for the lead truck and a 10 per cent saving for the rear.

The company has posted the following short film, depicting one instance for the platooning idea.

Peloton Technologies from WKG on Vimeo.