New Delhi, Dec 9 – The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras has unveiled an innovative AI-powered mobile application aimed at evaluating truck driving behavior in terms of safety and energy efficiency, as announced by officials on Monday.

This cutting-edge mobile application is designed to provide anticipatory alerts that notify drivers of unsafe driving practices, taking into account the static context of road infrastructure. The initiative will target drivers of diesel trucks who cover long distances, specifically those operating a minimum of 4,000 kilometers per month.

The Centre of Excellence for Zero Emission Trucking (CoEZET) at IIT Madras has initiated two significant projects under the campaign “Get ZET – Shifting Gears to Zero Emission Trucking.” According to IIT Madras Director V Kamakoti, the primary goal is to promote the adoption of Zero Emission Trucks (ZET), such as electric trucks, in India. Despite trucks constituting only 5% of the vehicle fleet, they account for nearly 65% of diesel consumption, contributing to considerable pollution and high fuel costs.

Kamakoti emphasized the importance of a three-step process: Awareness, Acceptance, and Adoption. “The initial phase focuses on educating stakeholders about various aspects of truck electrification, including trends, benefits, challenges, and technologies. Establishing a trustworthy relationship is crucial. Once that foundation is built, we will engage with stakeholders to facilitate their acceptance of the electrification journey, highlighting the advantages for them and the broader community,” he stated.

“Ultimately, we aim to assist in the adoption of truck electrification by providing the necessary tools, training, and preparations. Many individuals are collaborating with various stakeholders for truck electrification, and IIT Madras is committed to engaging this often-overlooked community, which is vital for the successful adoption of electric trucks,” he added.

Kamakoti further noted that India’s trucking industry is experiencing rapid growth, with freight movement accounting for 70% of road-based transportation.

“Initiatives like this, launched early and sustained over time, are expected to expedite the electrification of trucks in India. This will help reduce petroleum import costs, enhance competitiveness, lower emissions, and improve driver comfort and well-being,” he explained.

IIT Madras will also focus on raising awareness about Zero Emission Trucking (ZETs) among truck drivers and operators.

CS Shankar Ram, Head of the Department of Engineering Design at IIT Madras, highlighted the significance of the ‘User Layer’ of stakeholders, which includes drivers, cleaners, operators, mechanics, dhaba owners, masseurs, barbers, and pump operators. “This group is critical for psychological acceptance of changes in trucking. While other stakeholders, such as fleet operators and government entities, are influenced by monetary, policy, emission, and energy security factors, this layer experiences the direct impact of any changes on a daily basis,” he noted.

Ram added, “Drivers, in particular, will experience substantial improvements in personal comfort due to truck electrification, with significant enhancements in noise, vibration, heat, fatigue, acceleration, and other factors.”