While the self-driving cars, like Google’s Waymo, get all the publicity the use case for self-driving trucks in Australia is far greater. There are a couple of reasons you’ll see them first.
Firstly, it is a lot simpler to develop and test the software for the rural road networks, as opposed to built-up urban areas. And most cargo is transported on the road, given Australia’s minimal investment in rail
Secondly, the heavy haulage industry lives and dies on Return on Investment, rather than the consumer preferences. In simple terms, if the business case stacks up and is proven safe, then the haulage industry will adopt it. This is as opposed to an automated ride-share in a city where the entire city will need to be convinced it is safe and in their best interest.
As the video shows, self-driving trucks are far closer than you might expect.