Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems LLC is introducing Bendix Wingman ACB − active cruise with braking. It delivers warnings and proactive interventions to help drivers avoid collisions – and data to help with fleet operations and driver training, Bendix said.
Using a radar sensor mounted to the front of the vehicle, the system assists the driver to maintain a set following distance between their truck and the forward vehicle.
With cruise control on and speed set, Wingman ACB will warn and provide active interventions – reducing throttle, engaging the engine retarder and, if necessary, automatically applying the foundation brakes to help the driver maintain the intended following distance. When cruise control is not engaged, the driver still gets the benefit of following distance alerts to let them know if they are getting too close to the forward vehicle. Plus, the inclusion of Bendix ESP full stability technology helps drivers mitigate rollover and loss-of-control situations on dry, wet, snow and ice-covered roadways.
Drivers activate the system using the existing cruise control switches in the vehicle, and receive information and warnings through the vehicle dash. Following distance can be customized by the fleet using Bendix ACom diagnostic software (version 6.3 or higher). To help improve driver performance and safety, following distance, use of cruise control and even stability events are downloadable from the system.
Wingman ACB may have an additional benefit for fleets: improved fuel economy. Enabling drivers to stay in cruise for longer periods of time usually results in better fuel economy for the fleet, Bendix said.
Bendix Wingman ACB is available for fleets to order today, with vehicle delivery in early July 2009. Additional information regarding OEM availability, including product ordering codes, will be available at http://www.bendix.com or call 1-800-AIR-BRAKE (1-800-247-2725).
