There are still a lot of unanswered questions when it comes to electric and self-driving trucks.
Battery tech still hasn't progressed to the point where it makes sense to use electric trucks for long-haul scenarios. Daimler, for example, will first release electric trucks in cities until battery tech improves.
But until batteries can support long-range trips without completely weighing down the vehicle, platooning is currently the best bet for cutting emissions.
Meanwhile, self-driving trucks pose a serious threat to the economy as trucking remains one of the country's most common occupations.
Although most startups plan to keep drivers behind the wheel, that may not last for long as the tech advances over time. This could seriously harm metros like Joplin, Missouri that employ the largest percentage of truck drivers.
Still, the trucking industry has struggled with a growing driver shortage since 2005. These technologies could make truck driving more appealing, by allowing drivers to rest on the road, while cutting accident rates and emissions.
As the industry continues to struggle with high turnover rates and low wages, it's worth exploring solutions.