Platooning autonomous trucks haul ‘critical race equipment’ for NASCAR on 2,500-mile trek

A defense technology and logistics company achieved a “cross-country unmanned truck platooning deployment” in support of an upcoming NASCAR racing event.

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. announced the successful deployment of a truck platoon transporting “critical race equipment” on a cross-country trek.

On June 13, two Kratos trucks in autonomous platooning mode departed on a trip from Charlotte, North Carolina, to Naval Base Coronado in Southern California in support of the NASCAR Anduril 250 race, traveling more than 2,500 miles.

Kratos partnered with motorsports logistics provider Champion Tire & Wheel for the deployment.

The Kratos autonomous truck platooning system involves a human-driven semi truck acting as the “leader” truck for an autonomous “follower” truck with a safety operator inside of the cab.

Kratos says that the truck platooning system increases freight capacity and operational capacity, maximizing the efficiency of each truck driver.

“Using synchronized steering, braking, and speed control, the follower vehicle traveled as part of a multi-state freight deployment while maintaining safety and operational oversight. A layered autonomy approach combining GPS, onboard sensors, and advanced vehicle controls enabled operation across dynamic roadway and environmental conditions,” Kratos said.

“Last year proved the concept. This year demonstrated scalable execution,” said Maynard Factor, Vice President of Business Development at Kratos. “Our autonomous follower tractor-trailer successfully completed a cross-country logistics haul, demonstrating how platooning technology can safely improve efficiency, expand freight capacity, and help address ongoing driver shortages.”