What happens when trucks communicate with each other? Platooning is reshaping how fleets move, reducing fuel consumption, easing driver fatigue and setting the foundation for smarter logistics.

The technology behind it is called Vehicle-to-Vehicle (V2V) communication. It wirelessly links trucks so they can share speed and braking data in real time. Using radar, cameras and GPS, the following trucks automatically match the lead truck’s movements, keeping a close but safe distance without extra driver input.

Recently, MAN Truck & Bus shared an image of their vehicles in a platoon, showing how smoothly they maintain formation while traveling at highway speeds. The system relies on key technologies like an ITS G5 antenna, cameras, lidar, radar, and an advanced steering system. Trucks communicate via WLAN (ITS G5), exchanging data on speed, acceleration, braking, GPS position, and platoon condition, allowing the following vehicles to safely maintain a distance of about 15 meters from the lead truck.

Once a futuristic concept, truck platooning is now proving to be a practical solution for improving fleet performance. By reducing air resistance and ensuring smooth, consistent speeds, operators can achieve better fuel economy, lower emissions and safer, more efficient operations.