LOUISVILLE, Ky. Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems says its new Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) system rapidly slows trucks and maintains following distance in addition to engine dethrottling and engine brake (retarder) applications.

The technology builds on its original active safety system, Bendix ESP stability system.

“Our approach to adaptive cruise control utilizes the braking system to provide more stopping power than competitive systems, and fleets can be comforted knowing that the braking system manufacturer is operating the brakes,” said Kevin Romanchok, Bendix product line director, electronics. “Additionally, our target is integration with the OE dash to provide a clean look and simple functionality that requires no special switches or externally mounted lights or buzzers.”

Bendix active safety systems combine key elements and functions to deliver a robust technology that includes:

Adaptive Cruise Control: Enables a vehicle to maintain a set following interval, based on time, between the truck and the lead vehicle. To help decelerate the vehicle and keep the intended following distance, the Bendix ACC system will use throttle reduction, engine retarder, and brake application.

Following Distance Alerts: Provides warning levels to the driver using lights or sounds to let the driver know when he or she is tracking too closely.

Bendix ESP Stability System: Provides the driver with more options to avoid a collision. Depending on the situation, the driver may elect to swerve to avoid an accident. Bendix ESP can help the driver maintain control of his or her vehicle.

Data Management-Telematics: Real-time information available from the ACC system and other vehicle systems will be tailored to individual fleet needs and may include target and actual following distance and time, driver identification, and vehicle identification, to name a few.

Fleet testing of Bendix adaptive cruise control is currently underway and Bendix anticipates production launch by early 2008.

Adaptive Cruise Control can be used in the same situations as standard cruise control. Like the former, the driver should avoid using the system in stop-and-go traffic, in inclement weather or poor road conditions, and at speeds considered unsafe for traffic, weather, and road conditions.

“Like all active safety technologies, ultimate responsibility for accident avoidance rests with the driver,” noted Romanchok. “These technologies will not make bad drivers good drivers, but will help good drivers avoid bad situations.”