It sounds like you are trying several things that all sound like good places to start. Also, it's okay to be an introvert. It sounds like you probably are an introvert since you like driving long stretches and have a hard time dealing with people.

Introverts still need relationships though. Actually, introverts need more depth with a few close friends rather than lots of contact with a lot of people and not usually going much beyond surface level.

Keep going with the contacts you do make, if you enjoy them. And I've found that online groups like this one are also a good place to make a few really good friends.

TC,
Rap