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Abstract

The purpose of this project was to demonstrate and evaluate two candidate technologies that could be used to achieve Universal ID, i.e., having an electronic identifier on every commercial motor vehicle in the United States. Connected Vehicle (CV) technology is a long-term option, with the expectation that every vehicle (not just trucks) will be equipped with this technology within the next 10-15 years. A more immediate solution is simple, low-cost RFID technology, which is already in widespread use for multiple purposes, including toll collection.

For this project, both technologies were installed at three existing enforcement sites in Kentucky. Two of the locations were on weigh station ramps, and analysis of the data showed that approximately 80 percent of the trucks passing through those stations are already equipped with compatible RFID technology.

The RFID technology on the weigh station ramps successfully captured 96-100 percent of the passing tags. The missed tags appear to result from incomplete RFID antenna coverage of the wide ramps. Further testing is needed to determine if 100% coverage can be achieved by selecting different antennas and/or tweaking the installation. A quick analysis of state laws and regulations did not identify any that would serve as a barrier to nationwide implementation of Universal ID.

Report Date

8-2026

Report Number

KTC-27-11

Digital Object Identifier

https://doi.org/10.13023/ktc.rr.2027.11

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