Overdrive

March 2016 | Overdrive | 31 REINVENTING THE OWNER-OPERATOR T rucking's technology advances are changing not just the vehicle, but also what's expected of its operator. Sophisticated braking and stability systems, com- bined with other automation, are bringing autono- mous trucks – and possibly hours of service changes – closer to reality. Electronic logging devices and other wireless systems are turning the cab into a remote office churning out more data to more recipients. Meanwhile, evolutions in the owner-operator busi- ness model and the availability of real-time mar- ket information call for more savvy businesspeople. Whether leased or operating with his own authority, tomorrow's owner-operator will be redefined as more independent, yet more interdependent. THE Coming in April, Part 2: WIRED, WATCHED AND WEEDED How the increasing penetration of technology will shape tomorrow's driving force TOMORROW'S TRUCKER PART 1

• Cover
• Regulating trucking ‘out of business.’
• Pulse: Taming diesel prices.
• Surcharges and cheap diesel.
• Bigger carriers likely to trump ELD exemption.
• Confusion over 34-hour restart.
• Bill would restrict state say-so over hours, pay.
• Coalition, agency tangle over CSA.
• Sleep apnea measure set for publication.
• COVER STORY: Tomorrow's Trucker, Part 1: Reinventing the owner-operator
• The new face of independence: Autonomy, partnerships and technology.
• Meet the pilot-monitor, master of the autonomous truck.
• Advances in technology point toward hours relief.
• Wireless inspections: 24/7 exposure of truck, driver violations.
• Severe Service
• Moving up
• 75 Chrome Shop preps for Pride & Polish event.
• Reader Rigs: ’11 Pete 389 an ‘Ole Blue’ friend; ’99 Kenworth W900L turbocharged; ’04 Pete 379 feeds cattle; ’01 Pete 379 walks the dog.
• ChampTruck racing series ready to roll for second season.
• Gear Guide
• Fleet News
• Rearview