As the Crossroads of America, Indiana is a pivotal player shaping the future of freight in the United States.

Earlier this year, in partnership with the Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT), Conexus Indiana commissioned a groundbreaking study with infrastructure firm AECOM to assess how automated vehicle (AV) freight technologies are evolving—and how Indiana can lead the nation in AV-ready infrastructure.

The AV Freight Readiness Assessment zeroes in on what matters most for logistics and manufacturing professionals: how automation could impact freight transportation across the state, what infrastructure investments are needed and how Indiana can attract innovation while preserving its leadership in logistics.

Why this matters to Indiana’s logistics sector

Indiana’s logistics ecosystem powers the U.S. economy, and staying competitive means staying ahead of automation. AV freight—especially “middle-mile” trucking on highways—has moved beyond concept to pilot-ready. This report highlights how Indiana can prepare its roadways and policy environment to support safe, efficient and scalable automated freight movement.

1. Indiana has a competitive edge, but quick action is required
With its central location, extensive highway system, robust freight activity and strong logistics base, Indiana is well-positioned to become a leader in AV freight. However, other states are advancing quickly. A proactive strategy is essential to capture economic benefits and attract early AV investment.

2. Interstate corridors offer the greatest opportunity
Automated freight will likely begin with limited access highways—particularly long-haul corridors where routes are predictable and less complex. In this study, interstates like I-70, I-65 and I-74 emerged as top candidates for early deployment zones due to high freight volumes and existing infrastructure.

3. Public infrastructure needs are targeted and strategic.
AV freight deployment doesn’t require overhauling Indiana’s entire road system. Instead, targeted investments such as upgrading lane markings, signage and digital infrastructure will ensure that key corridors are AV-ready. These improvements also help make our roads safer and more user-friendly for human drivers today. Strategic improvements to future interchange design aim to avoid mixed-merging environments and merging that occur underneath long overpasses.

4. Industry partnerships will be critical
The private sector, especially manufacturers and logistics operators, has a major role to play in shaping Indiana’s AV freight future. Collaboration between INDOT, AV developers, freight carriers and manufacturing facility operators will be essential when piloting projects and ensuring infrastructure plans align with the real-world needs of the logistics industry

5. Economic growth potential is significant
By enabling automated freight, Indiana can enhance supply chain efficiency, reduce shipping costs and support workforce evolution. Early adoption can also attract AV companies, data providers and tech innovators to the state, supporting job creation and economic development in emerging transportation tech sectors.

What’s next for Indiana?
As AV freight technology continues to evolve, Indiana has the opportunity to assert itself as a national leader. The AV Freight Readiness Assessment equips public and private sector stakeholders with actionable insights to drive strategic decisions and infrastructure investments.

“This assessment is not just a snapshot of where Indiana stands today—it’s a roadmap for how we lead in AV freight,” said Tara Pearson, Conexus Indiana senior director of Research and Public Sector Engagement. “By focusing on targeted infrastructure improvements and collaborative pilot programs, we can ensure Indiana is AV-ready and positioned to attract innovation, investment and jobs in the next generation of logistics.”

Logistics professionals are encouraged to get involved, provide feedback and consider how automation could shape their operations, workforce and long-term strategies.

Click here to read the full report on Indiana’s AV freight future.