Asphalt-spraying truck fixes potholes in minutes
Popular Science
by Mack DeGeurinFebruary 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A new one-person pothole-filling truck called the CimlineP5 is revolutionizing road repairs by quickly sealing potholes in just minutes. Using "DuraPatcher" technology, this innovative vehicle sprays a tar-like asphalt emulsion into holes after heating it to the right temperature. Once applied, roads can reopen within two minutes, significantly improving traffic flow and safety. In Amarillo, Texas, crews using this system have patched up to 146 potholes daily—a huge jump from the previous average of 20 per day without the machine.
The CimlineP5 operates through a three-step process: cleaning debris with an onboard compressor, applying heat to the emulsion, and then spraying it directly into the hole. The truck's large boom arm extends up to 9-12 inches above the road surface, allowing precise targeting of potholes. A single operator controls the machine using a joystick-like interface, reducing labor costs and minimizing the need to close large sections of road.
While the system is faster and more efficient, it also claims to provide long-lasting fixes. Akron, Ohio officials reported that the DuraPatcher creates "permanent" solutions, eliminating the need for repeated repairs. However, some critics note issues with surface leveling, which can cause uneven patches resembling speed bumps. Despite these challenges, the truck's ability to tackle up to 55 million potholes across U.S. roads makes it a promising advancement in infrastructure maintenance.
The adoption of this technology represents a significant leap forward in addressing one of modern transportation's most frustrating issues: potholes. By combining efficiency with durability, the CimlineP5 offers cities a more sustainable and cost-effective way to maintain their road networks. As urban areas continue to grapple with aging infrastructure, innovations like this highlight
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Originally published on Popular Science on 2/26/2026