AI-Enabled Trucking Operations for Sustainable Logistics – Industry Best Practices in Driver Assistance, Route Optimization, Fuel Efficiency and Predictive Maintenance

Abstract

The presence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is felt in every sector, and the trucking sector is no exception. AI's influence pervades nearly every aspect of trucking, from pre-trip planning to post-delivery analysis, leading to significant improvements in efficacy, safety, sustainability, and even the nature of work for the drivers. Thus, the trucking sector, a backbone of global supply chains, is undergoing a profound transformation driven by Artificial Intelligence (AI). This descriptive paper synthesizes evidence from existing literature and analyzes the best practices adopted by leading organisations, including Ashok Leyland, DHL, Uber Freight, and Daimler Truck AG. The findings reveal that AI-driven technologies contribute significantly to operational excellence, cost reduction, environmental sustainability, and supply chain resilience. The paper proposes an integrated framework linking AI applications with sustainable logistics outcomes and highlights managerial implications for organizations seeking to accelerate digital transformation.