Unions oppose B.C. port’s plans to test self-driving trucks [Video]

Canada’s third-largest port plans to test self-driving trucks as it explores ways to increase its capacity, according to a port authority presentation first obtained by The Tyee and viewed by CBC News.

The Port of Prince Rupert could face a driver shortage as early as 2026, according to the presentation, at the same time that it’s expected to see a dramatic rise in cargo due to two expansion projects scheduled to be completed in 2026 and 2027.

“Container transload volumes will grow significantly between now and 2035,” the presentation said. Daily truck moves to and from the DP World container terminal in Prince Rupert, North America’s closest port to Asia, are expected to increase from 176 today to 1,322 in 2030, according to the presentation.

The port authority conducted about 1,000 kilometres of autonomous driving testing last year and says it plans to do more in June and July.

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