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November 2005
New U of M report: homeland security and the trucking industry
Since the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, the trucking industry has been among the transportation sectors receiving increased attention due to security concerns. The large carrying capacity and high level of access that make trucks invaluable freight haulers also make them potentially dangerous weapons. In response, the trucking industry has stepped up its exploration of new technologies meant to ensure that cargo, drivers, and vehicles comply with security standards.
The Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) Institute at CTS recently collaborated with the International Truck and Engine Corporation and the American Transportation Research Institute—the trucking industry's research arm—to evaluate security technologies applicable to commercial vehicle operations (CVO). A report synthesizing findings from the research is now available from the ITS Institute.
The report, by ITS Institute director Max Donath, Dan Murray, and Jeff Short, documents existing and developing trends in CVO economics and technology investments (with an emphasis on onboard systems), and their interrelationships with security preparedness and homeland security issues and imperatives. An in-depth review of smart-card applications, biometric verification systems, and cargo management devices is included.
Learn more about the report, Homeland Security and the Trucking Industry.