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The Driverless Road Ahead

Realising the Connected Autonomous Logistics (CAL) opportunity.

An evolving industry

Professor Phil Blythe is developing policy solutions for Connected Autonomous Logistics (CAL). Professor of Intelligent Transport Systems at Newcastle University, Phil is the former Chief Scientific Adviser at the Department for Transport (2015-2021).

His work is evolving the logistics industry and shaping an inclusive future of work. 

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The road ahead

The road freight sector is worth a massive £13.6bn to the UK economy each year. The sector underpins a wide range of industries by acting as an enabler. This ranges from manufacturing and heavy industry to retail and hospitality.

Road freight will be at the heart of powering the UK’s future economy. As demand for road freight increases, the UK faces a major workforce shortage in the sector. In 2020/21, the UK had 50,000 fewer HGV drivers than in 2017. The age of drivers in the sector is rising too, so road freight is facing a future workforce crisis. Post-pandemic, logistics workers also want greater flexibility in how they work.

What is CAL?

Using new technology, experts have developed vehicles capable of autonomous operation. Over long distances, these present new opportunities for the logistics industry. Operated remotely, a network of tele-operators using 5G and 6G technology can control heavy goods vehicles.

Advancements in CAL present a real opportunity for logistics to:

  • innovate and future proof the sector
  • improve efficiency
  • lower costs
  • create safer, more flexible and inclusive jobs

Advancements in CAL are being pioneered in the North East. To realise these opportunities, we need Government to support further research and development.

Policy recommendations

A major policy briefing, The driverless road ahead, was published in spring 2023 and makes recommendations on:

  • investment in public 5G and 6G telecommunications infrastructure
  • ensuring CAL vehicles operate safely in light of emerging cyber threats
  • commitments to further R&D investment in the North East to help drive further innovation
  • supporting training providers to equip students with skills to operate CAL technology
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