Luciana Terceiro

UX & User Research

Volvo – Glenn Project

Business Developer Program 2018 – 2019

⇠ Hyper Island projects

Glenn was a project developed during a hackathon promoted by Hyper Island and Volvo. The hackathon had a duration of 40 hours.

The proposed challenge was

How might Volvo enrich truck drivers’ daily “last mile distribution” work through a mobile app whilst operating connected and electric trucks? 


How we reframe it

How can Volvo improve truck drivers’ daily routine through technology and electric trucks?


Research

Initially, we started the project by researching trends and technologies regarding transport and delivery systems. We also spoke to some truck drivers to understand their routines and struggles.

Some of the points highlighted by the drivers:

  • Drivers work on a tight schedule, with a lot of time pressure. It’sIt’s stressful work: traffic, finding the best routes, being on time for scheduled deliveries. 
  • It’sIt’s a lonely job. 

Truckers are living in a box

Quote by one of the interviewed drivers

Drivers use smartphones all the time for consulting schedules, deliveries, routes, and communication. They don’t have much time to stop and safely look for information on smartphones. 

Although mobile devices are very helpful, they also increase traffic accidents. According to the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Association): 

  • Truck drivers are 23.2 times more likely to be involved in an accident while texting or using a cell phone. 
  • Commercial truck drivers reaching for an object are three times more likely to be involved in a crash. 
  • A texting truck driver takes his eyes off the road for an average of 4.6 seconds. Travelling at 55 mph, that driver travels the length of a football field while checking his text. 

Even though I know it’s dangerous, it’s impossible to not use the phone while working

Quote by one of the interviewed drivers

Check the project presentation

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