Value Proposition of Autonomous Electric Trucks in the Freight Industry : A Qualitative Study of Transport Buyers

Sammanfattning: This study explores the value proposition of Autonomous Battery Electric Trucks (ABETs) in the transportation industry, and offers insights into customer perceptions and potential challenges regarding this emergent technology. The aim of the study is to understand customer needs, address implementation issues, and evaluate opportunities for Logistics Service Providers (LSP) to adopt ABETs. An extensive literature review was conducted followed by semi-structured interviews with transport buyers (shippers) and industry experts. Based on the study’s findings, a value proposition was created. The findings reveal an indifference towards autonomous trucklogistics among shippers. However, they foresee its potential as a competitive advantage in the future. Shippers anticipate benefits from ABETs such as improved transparency, increased operational efficiency, and potential cost savings. Nonetheless, to fully realise these benefits, challenges related to digital integration and customer expectations need to be addressed. Thus, it is suggested that LSPs concentrate on meeting basic customer needs while leveraging the benefits of autonomous capabilities. Potential applications of ABETs might be most effective in high-frequency, short-distance flows, typically near intermodal hubs or industrial parks, serving as test cases for wider adoption. Active participation in EU pilots and research projects can help LSPs better understand the operational requirements and influence future standards. As the logistics industry evolves, LSPs must remain adaptive and proactive to capitalise on the opportunities provided by autonomous logistics. The findings from this study present a roadmap for navigating these changes, demonstrating that properly managed implementation of autonomous capabilities promises significant advantages for early adopters and can revolutionise the logistics industry.