LOUISVILLE, Ky. – Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems’ latest generation of ABS technology – Bendix ABS-6 – has undergone extensive winter testing and is ready to be launched by the end of this year.

The testing, which took place in Sweden and Michigan, validated the system’s electronic stability program’s (ESP’s) performance in driving scenarios such as obstacle avoidance and other handling exercises on snow-covered and icy surfaces.

“Winter testing was the culmination of our comprehensive testing sequence to measure the system’s performance on a full range of driving conditions,” said Kevin Romanchok, product line director, electronic control systems.

“We’re poised to accept orders for the stability programs in late 2004 in advance of first quarter 2005 production.”

Jim McClelland, vice-president original equipment sales with Bendix, said “the performance (of ABS-6) was extremely well-done and well-received both in the traction and stability functions.”

The ABS-6 system contains sensors and algorithms that were previously believed to be only available through electronically controlled braking systems, company officials said.

Benefits include excellent traction and stability, greater diagnostic and prognostic capabilities and easier maintenance through the use of familiar components and system architecture.

Bendix also announced the availability of ABS-6 Advanced – the electronic stability system recommended for all power vehicles. It includes a roll-stability feature that reduces the chances of a rollover by applying all of the vehicle’s brakes.

The new Bendix ABS system will be available in standard, premium and advanced configurations, which can be customized to a fleet’s individual needs.

While at the Mid-America Trucking Show, Bendix also announced that ABS-6 has been selected as the standard ABS system for Volvo Trucks North America, effective the fourth quarter of 2004.

And when ABS-6 Advanced is launched in early 2005, it will be a customer-specified stability option for all Class 8 Volvo VN and VHD trucks, the manufacturer announced. For more information, visit www.bendix.com