At a press event in Indianapolis, ZF demonstrated its OnTrax lane-keep assist technology. Employing its ReAX, hydraulic electric steering system, OnTrax combines information from the road, vehicle, camera and ReAX modules to provide lane keeping assistance by applying hand-wheel torque that urges vehicle away from lane boundary. ZF stressed that this is a driver-assistance technology—and the driver is still required to keep his hands on the wheel at all times. Watch the video below for a demonstration of the technology. Note that while my hands are on the wheel, the wheel itself is nudging the truck into the center of the lane when I veer toward the lane line.
ZF also announced its new PowerLine automatic transmission, an eight-speed automatic transmission for commercial vehicles up to 57,000 lbs. ZF plans to release the new transmission for commercial vehicles around the globe by 2020, ahead of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Phase 2 Greenhouse Gas and Fuel Efficiency Standards.
PowerLine features up to 1,000 lb.-ft. engine torque, ZF patented eight-speed gear set and intelligent skip-shift to improve acceleration performance by up to 30%, according to the company, compared to a six-speed automatic transmission on a multipurpose route. This product is prepared for engine-driven power take-offs on both sides with up to 485 lb.-ft. It is also designed for reliability and supported by a fully-integrated transmission control unit with one central electric connector and transmission-mounted oil cooler. PowerLine also provides a 45% weight benefit and enhanced fuel efficiency of more than 10% over six-speed automatic transmissions on a multipurpose route, according to ZF.
Watch a test drive of the new ZF PowerLine transmission:
The new PowerLine CV transmission also comes loaded with smart software features such as Adaptive Starting Gear, Neutral Idle Control, Multi Skip Shift, Maneuvering Mode, Stop-Start and more.
The PowerLine eight-speed automatic commercial vehicle transmission features:
▪ Eight-speed AT technology for commercial vehicles up to 57,000 lbs;
▪ for applications such as distribution, beverage, truck rental and leasing, refuse, construction, utility, school bus, heavy-duty pickup, etc.;
▪ Up to 1,000 lb.-ft. engine torque for maximum traction;
▪ 485 lb-ft engine-driven dual side PTO interface;
▪ Supported by a fully-integrated transmission control unit with one central electric connector and transmission-mounted oil cooler;
▪ Additional 45% weight benefit over six-speed transmissions for improved freight efficiency / capacity; and
▪ ZF patented eight-speed gear set and intelligent skip-shift to improve acceleration.
