Purdue University Wins 5M Grant for Truck Platooning Research

Purdue University Wins 5M Grant for Truck Platooning Research

The U.S. Department of Energy has awarded Purdue University a $5 million grant to research truck platooning, focusing on improving fuel efficiency and communication between vehicles. The project aims to enhance the fuel economy of heavy-duty trucks by 20%. This initiative explores the potential of coordinated driving strategies to reduce aerodynamic drag and optimize fuel consumption within a convoy of trucks. The research will also address the challenges of maintaining safe following distances and reliable communication in real-world platooning scenarios, contributing to advancements in smart logistics and sustainable transportation.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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Chinas Logistics Sector Booms with Investment and Innovation

Chinas Logistics Sector Booms with Investment and Innovation

The logistics industry at the end of the year shows three major trends: capital inflow, model innovation, and service upgrades. Ant Financial led the investment in logistics technology companies, and express delivery companies competed to launch "free delivery upstairs." Innovative models such as JD Cold Chain Trucking, SF Express's "Fengsu GO," and Cainiao's "Same-Day Delivery" emerged. In addition, the Chongqing-Singapore ASEAN shuttle bus line test was launched, HNA Logistics promoted high-quality assets, Shaanxi Province eliminated high-emission old vehicles, and DHL launched a global digital strategy.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Declines in May As Coal Petroleum Demand Wanes

US Rail Freight Declines in May As Coal Petroleum Demand Wanes

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows a decline in both U.S. rail carloads and intermodal units for the week ending May 21. Significant decreases were observed in coal and petroleum products shipments, while miscellaneous carloads, nonmetallic minerals, and motor vehicles & parts saw increases. The article analyzes the multiple factors contributing to the freight volume decline, including economic slowdown and shifting consumer demand. It suggests strategies such as diversifying business operations, improving service quality, and embracing technological innovation to address the challenges and maintain competitiveness in the rail freight industry.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Surge Points to Economic Recovery

US Rail Freight Surge Points to Economic Recovery

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows that U.S. rail freight and intermodal volumes both increased year-over-year for the week ending July 24th. Significant growth was seen in the transportation of coal and metallic ores, while volumes of motor vehicles & parts and farm products declined. The substantial increase in cumulative freight volume over the first 29 weeks of 2021 indicates that rail transportation is playing a vital role in the U.S. economic recovery. Total carloads and intermodal units reflect a positive trend in freight activity.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Decline Points to Economic Slowdown

US Rail Freight Decline Points to Economic Slowdown

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows that for the week ending August 26th, U.S. rail carloads and intermodal units both declined year-over-year. Carload traffic increased for motor vehicles & parts, petroleum products, and nonmetallic minerals, but decreased significantly for coal and grain. Cumulative data for the first 34 weeks of the year indicates a slight increase in carloads, but a notable decrease in intermodal volume. The decline in rail freight suggests a potential economic slowdown, requiring businesses to adapt and be flexible in their supply chain management.

02/11/2026 Logistics
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US Rail Freight Slumps Auto Shipments Rise Amid Decline

US Rail Freight Slumps Auto Shipments Rise Amid Decline

Data from the Association of American Railroads shows a decline in both U.S. rail freight and intermodal traffic for the week ending December 12th, signaling potential economic headwinds. While shipments of motor vehicles and parts provided a bright spot, overall freight volume decreased. Year-to-date figures reveal a decline in total carloads and a slower growth rate in intermodal volume. Rail freight volume is often considered an economic indicator, suggesting the industry faces both challenges and opportunities in the future. The overall trend indicates a cautious outlook for the economy.

02/12/2026 Logistics
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Ottos Selfdriving Trucks Transform Logistics Industry

Ottos Selfdriving Trucks Transform Logistics Industry

Otto's self-driving truck successfully delivered Budweiser beer, marking a new era for the logistics industry. Autonomous driving technology offers significant advantages, including increased efficiency, reduced costs, improved safety, and alleviation of driver shortages. Despite potential volatility and challenges facing the logistics sector in 2025, the application prospects for self-driving trucks are broad. They hold the promise of reshaping transportation models, optimizing supply chains, and creating new business opportunities within the logistics and transportation landscape. The successful delivery demonstrates the potential for autonomous vehicles to revolutionize the movement of goods.

01/20/2026 Logistics
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North American Trucking Market Adapts As Trailer Orders Decline

North American Trucking Market Adapts As Trailer Orders Decline

Recent data indicates a decline in US trailer orders, but backlogs are still increasing, reflecting both capacity bottlenecks and ongoing demand. Heavy-duty truck orders continue to grow, driven by tight capacity and fleet renewal needs. The used vehicle market is cooling, with demand shifting towards new vehicles. The North American commercial vehicle market faces both opportunities and challenges. A rational approach to market fluctuations is necessary to capitalize on long-term growth opportunities. The market presents a mixed picture of decreasing trailer orders coupled with strong truck demand.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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Amsterdam Hosts Europes Premier EV Summit

Amsterdam Hosts Europes Premier EV Summit

The 2023 Electric Vehicles & Energy Storage Exhibition in Amsterdam, Netherlands, is one of Europe's largest industry events, bringing together global companies to showcase the latest technologies and products across the entire electric vehicle industry chain. With a focus on charging infrastructure and power battery technology, the exhibition points the way for industry development, helps companies expand into overseas markets, and jointly envisions the future of electric mobility. It provides a platform for networking, knowledge sharing, and exploring business opportunities in the rapidly evolving EV and energy storage sectors.

02/03/2026 Logistics
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Chinese EV Brands Gain Traction in Middle Easts Growing Market

Chinese EV Brands Gain Traction in Middle Easts Growing Market

Chinese automotive brands are accelerating their expansion into the Middle East market, benefiting from the Belt and Road Initiative and the region's favorable policies towards new energy vehicles. In 2022, Chinese brands experienced significant sales growth in Saudi Arabia, continuously expanding their market share. The Middle East automotive market holds immense potential, particularly in the auto parts sector, which is projected to continue growing in the coming years. Efficient logistics are crucial for auto parts companies going global, ensuring greater success for Chinese automakers in the Middle East market.

02/03/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
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