ELYRIA, Ohio — Bendix Spicer Foundation Brake is welcoming new stopping distance requirements announced recently by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), which will require tractor-trailers to stop 30% shorter of today’s standard.

Bendix said it already has a full range of brake products that meet the new requirement, which are available on a full range of OE truck models.

“We commend NHTSA for making this final ruling,” said Walter Frankiewicz, president of Bendix Spicer Foundation Brake. “Bendix is committed to improving vehicle safety, and we believe the new ruling is critical to helping prevent accidents and saving lives. The final rule is an important step toward balancing stopping performance between the many vehicle types that share our roadways, and we look forward to working with our OEM customers in this vital effort.”

Typical three-axle tractors will have to comply with the new stopping distance requirement by Aug. 1, 2011 and two-axle tractors as well as severe-service tractors will have until Aug. 1, 2013 to comply.

Bendix Spicer Foundation Brake says customers will have several options for complying, including using all drum brakes, all disc brakes or a combination of both.

“Vehicle OEMs and fleets can make purchase decisions based upon their needs and preferences,” said Aaron Schwass, director for the foundation drum group at Bendix Spicer Foundation Brake.