LOUISVILLE, Ky. – Disc brake technology is now available on all Class 8, medium-duty and Business Class M2 Freightliner truck models, courtesy of Bendix/Spicer. Company officials made the announcement at the Mid-America Trucking Show in Louisville.

Air disc brakes offer several performance advantages including improved brake pedal feel and reduced brake fade, officials said.

“Freightliner Trucks was the pioneer in the industry by being the first to offer disc brake technology back in the seventies,” said Mark Lampert, senior vice-president, sales and marketing, Freightliner Trucks.

“The brake technology has come a long way since then and it continues to be an important component offering for Freightliner Trucks.”

Brake fade, a phenomenon of decreasing performance from heat build-up in drum brakes, is minimized with the latest Bendix/Spicer disc brake technology, said Freightliner officials. Brake fade reductions are seen during prolonged brake applications with disc brakes. This is advantageous for braking on steep and long downhill slopes. The disc brakes also include a simpler design, allowing for fast and easy servicing, said officials. Freightliner Trucks vehicles must be equipped with proprietary front axles to receive the disc brake option. The brakes can be spec’d for 24.5-inch tires.

“Operators like the braking capabilities of disc brakes. Braking feels smooth and responsive with minimal hesitation,” said Lampert.

The Bendix/Spicer air disc brakes are now available on all Freightliner Trucks heavy-duty vehicles including the Coronado, Century Class S/T, Columbia, Classic XL, Classic, Argosy and Condor, as well as the entire Business Class M2 product line. For more information visit www.freightlinertrucks.com