Automated platooning semi trucks achieved 2,700 miles as part of I-70 project, Ohio DOT says

The Ohio Department of Transporation (ODOT) delivered an update on the I-70 Truck Platooning Project that kicked off in April.

Since April 2025, a pair of semi trucks equipped with automated platooning technology have been traveling on I-70 between Columbus, Ohio, and Indianapolis, Indiana, delivering freight for EASE Logistics customers as part of the multi-year, $8.8 million, I-70 Truck Platooning Project.

On August 11, ODOT provided an update on the progress of the project, stating that the pair of trucks have achieved more than 2,700 miles while in platooning mode.

ODOT officials also said that since April, the platooning trucks have made nearly 50 freight deliveries for customers, all while achieving greater fuel efficiency.

The trucks participating in the I-70 Truck Platooning Project “are equipped with platooning technology provided by Kratos Defense that electronically links the two vehicles and allows the driver of the lead vehicle to control the speed and direction of the second truck, enabling it to precisely follow the path of the leader,” ODOT says.

The “follower” truck can automatically steer, accelerate, and brake as it travels behind the lead truck.

Both the “leader” and “follower” trucks have a professional driver in the driver’s seat who can take over control of the vehicles if needed, officials say.

“At EASE, we’re committed to driving innovation in logistics with safety at the core of everything we do,” said Peter Coratola Jr., Founder & CEO at EASE. “Our work on the I-70 project is a clear example of that commitment—we implemented a Crawl/Walk/Run pre-deployment strategy and required our drivers to complete 260 hours of intensive training to ensure they were fully prepared. We’re focused on creating meaningful change in the industry, guided by a clear vision and a deep responsibility to lead. Through projects like this, we’re not only advancing innovation—we’re helping establish EASE and our region as national leaders in transportation.”

“Everything we do at ODOT is driven by safety. We’re committed to reducing deaths on our roadways and vehicle automation technologies can be part of the solution,” said ODOT Director Pam Boratyn. “Many vehicles on the road today have some degree of automated driving systems including adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and automatic braking. All of these features are designed to improve safety and reduce driver stress.”

ODOT and the  Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) plan to release a Request for Proposals for additional deployments of automated trucks in Ohio and Indiana later this year.