We're about 35,000 empty with a 3 axle reefer (without a reefer) full up with fuel. The old Cornbinder with a two axle reefer was pretty close to 33K empty.
I find the 45% savings number conservative. All the crap hanging off trucks that are safety and human related is amazing. Plus, you can run 7,000 hours a year vs. 2,000 hours per year. Half million miles a year per vehicle.
I think it's worth considering the law of unintended consequences. FIRST thing I would do if my truck was autonomous is slow it WAYYYY down. I'd be on the interstate doing 50 MPH to save a third of fuel, reduce tire wear and reduce maintenance costs. It would still get there in half the time. What's going to happen to I-5 in Seattle if all the trucks are put-putting along at 50? And, can I sell tickets?
.
Second, a scary high number of the US working population that is on the lower end of the intelligence scale works as a driver. What are they going to do if they are no longer needed to drive a cab or a truck?
