Truck Platooning represents a cutting-edge advancement in the realm of modern logistics and highway transportation, defined by the strategic formation of two or more semi-trailer trucks driving in close proximity at consistent high speeds. This technology, powered by connected and automated vehicles, stands at the forefront of transportation innovation, promising significant reductions in fuel consumption and emissions, alongside enhancements in logistical efficiency and road safety. Historically, the focus of truck platooning research has primarily been on perfecting the control mechanisms necessary for maintaining consistent spacing and smooth speed adjustments. More recent studies have expanded to explore the potential fuel savings under various operational scenarios. However, an often-overlooked aspect of this technology is its impact on labor dynamics, especially regarding the adjustment of labor costs. This is a critical consideration for both human-operated connected vehicles and the future of fully autonomous trailing trucks. Platooning technology reduces the need for constant manual steering adjustments, thereby significantly decreasing the physical and mental strain on drivers. In the foreseeable future, it might eliminate the need for human drivers in trailing trucks altogether. To comprehensively assess truck platooning’s advantages in terms of labor management and operational efficiency, our research employs large-scale optimization models that reflect real-world conditions. We also introduce innovative, customized heuristics for solving these complex problems efficiently. Our methodology incorporates a variety of sophisticated techniques, including Lagrangian Relaxation, Greedy Algorithms, Dynamic Programming, and decomposition methods, to tackle these challenges. This multifaceted approach not only highlights the technological prowess of truck platooning but also underscores its potential to revolutionize the logistics industry by making it more sustainable and efficient.

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