The Rise of Self-Driving Trucks in Texas

Title: From Katy to the Future: Self-Driving Trucks Hit the Road

In Katy, Texas, Bot Auto recently showcased a fully autonomous 18-wheeler driving through real traffic. The truck used a combination of cameras, lidar, and radar to stay in lanes, handle traffic lights, and even merge onto highways.

A human safety driver was on board, but the truck largely drove itself. This demonstration highlights just how far self-driving technology has advanced in the trucking industry.

Supporters say autonomous trucks could reduce driver fatigue, cut down on accidents, and improve delivery efficiency. For long-haul routes, especially those that run straight across highways for hundreds of miles, self-driving systems could prove especially useful. However, most experts agree that drivers won’t be replaced. Instead, technology will act as a co-pilot, handling long stretches while humans focus on tasks that require judgment and flexibility.

Still, big questions remain—like how insurance, safety standards, and regulations will adapt to this new reality. Many drivers are cautious, worried about job security, while others see it as a tool to make their work safer and less stressful. What’s clear is that self-driving trucks aren’t a distant dream anymore—they’re already on the road.