If you are in the market for a new fleet of semi trucks, you might have a long list of must-have items. In addition to a comfortable cab for your drivers and enough space for your cargo, you might also dream of future features that aren't currently available. However, truck manufacturers are ten steps ahead of you, and are already experimenting with designs that will blow your mind.

Here are three things semi trucks might offer in the not-so-distant future, and how they could improve your business:

1: Incredible Fuel Efficiency

When you sit down with your accountant to go over expenditures, you might be astounded with the total cost of fueling up your trucks. High gas prices might mean steeper costs for your customers, which can be bad for business. However, newer semi trucks will be more fuel-efficient than ever, which can reduce your expenditures.

How much power do you think it takes for a semi truck to push through the air on the road at high speeds? Believe it or not, semi trucks use as much as 50% of their fuel to displace the air in front of the vehicle. Fortunately, semi truck manufacturers have found ways to help that rig to slice through the wind, without eating up extra fuel.

By altering the body design of the semi, manufacturers can significantly reduce the amount of air drag placed on the vehicle. Newer semis might contain a tapered nose and covers to go over the wheels, so that air doesn't catch in these places and slow down the rig. Instead of bulky mirrors that can weigh down the vehicle and create an extra obstacle for surrounding airflow, manufacturers are placing tiny cameras that relay surrounding information to large screens inside of the cab.

These changes might seem like small details, but they can make a big impact on fuel economy. In fact, research has shown that these extra features could improve fuel efficiency by 25%. If you are looking for a great way to reduce your company expenses, new and improved semi trucks could offer the solution to your problems.   

2: Full Automation

One of the hottest trends in the automotive world is the idea of fully automated systems that detect issues, adjust for bad weather conditions, and never tire behind the wheel. Although it might seem like a scene out of a science fiction movie, automation is real technology that is being tested around the world.

Believe it or not, a fully automated semi truck trailer is currently being tested in Germany. This rig uses a network of different cameras, sensors, and computer equipment to make adjustments as it navigates the roads. Although a driver is needed to oversee the controls or take over in the event of an emergency, the system is capable of braking to miss cars, adjusting speeds to maximize fuel efficiency, and spotting approaching obstacles that may be in the driver's blind spot.  

Because computer systems never tire, this new technology could speed up shipping times, reduce accidents, and improve the driver's experience. Experts predict that automated semi rigs could be on the road as early as ten years from now, so you might not have to wait long to keep your fleet safer on the road. Use resources like http://www.arrowtruck.com/ to keep up with the latest trends and updates.

3: Improved Employee Productivity

Truck drivers have to worry about more than just getting from point A to point B safely. In addition to staying on schedule and navigating rough terrain, they also have to deal with other aspects of their job. Fortunately, with the help of fully automated rigs, your drivers might be able to get more done on the road.

For example, your drivers might be able to finish up delivery paperwork during the trip, or read through those additional training manuals that you need them to go through. When drivers have extra time on the road, they can improve their productivity, which can save you money.

In the future, improvements with semi truck designs might help you to protect your bottom line, while keeping your employees on task.