A new report commissioned by Aurora and conducted by the Steer Group has found that autonomous freight is already contributing billions to the US$1tn US trucking industry, with even greater economic potential expected over the next decade. In response, Aurora Innovation is committing US$1m to its Aurora Works initiative to help prepare the US workforce.
The analysis, titled Economic Impacts of Self-Driving Freight in the US, highlights that autonomous trucking, despite being in early stages of deployment, currently supports 17,000 jobs and US$3.3bn in total economic output.
The report projects that by 2035, autonomous trucking will contribute US$70bn to US GDP, becoming a highly efficient growth driver for long-haul transportation. The report also estimates US$9.4bn in annual safety gains and US$9bn in added household purchasing power from lower transportation costs.
“We believe that autonomous trucking can be a massive engine for the American economy and fortify the national transportation industry,” said Chris Urmson, co-founder and CEO of Aurora. “This report supports our conclusion that technology, like the Aurora Driver, can make our roads safer, our supply chain more resilient and our operations more efficient than ever before.”
A stronger supply chain
With a national driver shortage projected to reach 1.2 million over the next decade, autonomous trucking could help prevent shipping bottlenecks. By more than doubling fleet utilization – the amount of time a truck is actively moving goods – it enables a 24/7, always-on supply chain, improving resilience and efficiency.
Autonomous technology could also cut fuel waste by up to 32% and save shippers US$5.7bn in fuel costs. Under an accelerated rollout, these efficiencies are expected to boost consumer spending power, adding US$9bn annually for US households by 2035.
The safety dividend
The report estimates that in 2035, self-driving technology could prevent up to 490 fatalities, 8,800 injuries and 23,000 crashes per year. Measured against US DOT standards, this equates to US$9.4bn in annual safety benefits. Improved road safety is projected to lead to a 40% reduction in insurance premiums, significantly lowering the cost of doing business across the freight sector.
Supporting the American workforce
Truck drivers today can expect to retire in the role, but the nature of trucking jobs will evolve. As the industry scales, it is expected to create a new generation of high-paying careers. Already, 82% of autonomous vehicle workers earn above the national median wage, with many roles accessible without a college degree.
To help prepare the US workforce, Aurora is committing US$1m to its Aurora Works initiative. The program will build partnerships with educators and develop technical training focused on skills for emerging roles, aiming to equip workers to adapt alongside the technology. “Through the Aurora Works program, we are making a US$1m commitment to ensure that as our technology scales, so do the opportunities for the people who power this industry,” said Urmson.
“PAVE applauds Aurora for investing in research that highlights the economic and workforce potential of autonomous trucking,” said Tara Andringa, executive director at Partners for Automated Vehicle Education, (PAVE).
“This report shows the autonomous trucking sector is already supporting jobs and economic activity across the country, with enormous potential to further strengthen the US economy.
“Aurora has been a steadfast partner in advancing workforce leadership efforts, and the Aurora Works initiative is further testament to their commitment to the future of the American workforce, the AV industry and the communities they serve.”
Related news, Uber and Rivian agree to large-scale autonomous robotaxi development program