SOUTH BEND, Ind. — Freightliner says the industry has embraced its Roll Advisor and Control system for heavy-duty trucks, with more than 11,000 units now in place.

The technology alerts drivers to a potential rollover scenario and can automatically intervene to take correction actions.

The system is integrated with the truck’s ABS system and can apply engine and services brakes if a rollover is imminent. It’s designed to educate drivers to recognize risky vehicle maneuvers and so far it appears to be working.

Freightliner customer, Praxair, found that its drivers drove more conservatively following a warning.

"It has proven to create a heightened sense of awareness," says Mark Tietje, director of safety for North America Industrial Gases with Praxair.

The Roll Advisor and Control system uses sensors to track lateral acceleration and wheel speed to detect the potential for rollover. It warns drivers when they are at risk of a rollover, and only takes preventive measures if a rollover is imminent.

"In keeping with DaimlerChrysler’s vision of accident-free driving, Roll Advisor and control is an active safety technology designed to prevent accidents from happening in the first place," says Michael von Mayenburg, Freightliner senior vice-president of engineering and technology.

The company plans to roll out an electronic stability control system later this year. For a full report on the technology, see the August issue of Truck News and Truck West.