Droves of autonomous trucks have begun to make their way across Europe as part of the European Truck Platooning Challenge.

The so-called platoons are set for arrival in the Port of Rotterdam on Tuesday 6th April, reports Logistics Manager.

Using smart technology, the autonomous trucks will be able to communicate with each other for the purpose of keeping within a set distance of each other.

The idea behind this technology keeping them in proximity is to help reduce overall fuel consumption.

By doing this in a platoon, it makes the amount of fuel that is used easier to record and it could also pave the way for further automated systems for both driving and smart mobility.

Six different truck manufacturers are taking part in the challenge, comprising DAF, Mercedes-Benz, Iveco, MAN, Scania and Volvo.

Beginning its journey from Sodertalje in the south of Stockholm, Scania's truck has the furthest distance to travel of all the others.

This challenge is part of a combined focus on transport from the Netherlands, which it will use for its presidency of the European Union.