On European highways, we may soon see white trucks with darkened windshields and no driver on board. This is MODI, a research project funded by the European Union, aimed at introducing autonomous trucks into long-haul freight transport. Coordinated by ITS Norway, the programme involves 36 public and private entities from seven EU countries, plus Norway.

The goal is to achieve Level 4 automation, where vehicles can drive themselves within defined geographical areas, such as terminals and airports, without the need for a human presence. To do this, the project relies on a sophisticated integration of artificial intelligence, sensors, radar, and cameras, with constant monitoring from remote operations centres.

Among the main drivers of automation are the structural shortage of drivers, the need to make transport more efficient, and the goal of increasing road safety.