Self-Driving Trucks Hit I-35: What It Could Mean for San Antonio Real Estate

How will self-driving semi trucks along I-35 impact property values and land use in San Antonio?

Autonomous trucking is no longer a futuristic concept. It's already being tested along I-35 — and San Antonio is right in the middle of the action. With International Motors and partners like PlusAI launching self-driving truck trials, local infrastructure and real estate markets may soon feel the effects.

The Tech Behind the Trucks

The program uses semis equipped with lidar, radar, 360-degree cameras, and advanced AI to navigate real-time road conditions. The trucks will travel the I-35 corridor from Laredo to Dallas, with San Antonio serving as a remote monitoring hub.

This is more than just a new way to move freight. It represents a potential shift in how distribution centers, industrial zones, and transportation infrastructure are planned — and that could affect surrounding property values.

Why This Matters for Local Real Estate

San Antonio’s position along the I-35 corridor has long made it a key player in logistics and trade. The introduction of autonomous freight movement could accelerate:

• Demand for warehouse and logistics space

• Zoning shifts near key interchanges

• Property value increases near smart infrastructure upgrades

If autonomous vehicles require new fueling stations, maintenance hubs, or data relay points, that means commercial land along the corridor becomes even more valuable.

Areas to Watch

Neighborhoods and commercial zones near major I-35 access points — especially around Loop 410, Loop 1604, and industrial areas south and east of downtown — could see early benefits.

Developers and investors might also look at:

• Underutilized land near current truck routes

• Zones already primed for logistics or light manufacturing

• Areas flagged for infrastructure improvements tied to smart vehicle testing

What Comes Next

While full deployment of self-driving trucks may take time, the testing phase signals where momentum is building. Infrastructure investment often comes first, and that can shift demand before the technology is even widely adopted.

Cybersecurity, urban navigation, and refueling technology still present hurdles — but the long-term direction is clear: automation is coming.

Final Takeaway

Self-driving trucks aren’t just changing transportation. They’re changing how we think about land use, infrastructure, and real estate near major corridors like I-35. San Antonio’s central role in this rollout makes now a smart time to watch, learn, and position yourself for what’s next.

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