Kenworth Truck
Focusing on security and safety, Kenworth unveiled their T800 High-Tech Truck at the Mid-America Trucking Show in Louisville, Ken.

The truck features technologies such as biometric authentication, GPS-based telematics tracking systems, Surround Electronic Vision System, Kenworth Night Vision, and high-intensity discharge headlamps. Kenworth is truly on technology’s cutting edge with this latest concept vehicle.

Kenworth teamed with Heil Trailer International to produce a T800 High-Tech Truck specifically designed for bulk haulers, which typically transport cargo such as fuel and hazardous materials. Tractor and trailer systems are integrated so that they can electronically “communicate” with each other.

The Kenworth truck’s key security technology is a biometric authentication system, which checks a driver’s authorization to operate a specific truck within a fleet.

“When the driver’s fingerprint is verified via a sensor, the ignition system is enabled and the vehicle can be operated at normal traffic speeds,” said Jim Bechtold, Kenworth chief engineer. “If the fingerprint doesn’t match, the vehicle can still be started. But it’s at a severely restricted horsepower, thus limiting operation to well below normal speeds. The fleet dispatcher also receives an alert message via wireless communication that an unauthorized user is involved.”

Kenworth’s GPS-based telematics tracking system allows fleet dispatchers to track the movement of a truck throughout North America. The dispatcher receives information on the driver’s identity, adherence to a predetermined and authorized route, vehicle weight, and other data.

The Surround Electronic Vision System provides nearly 360-degrees of coverage around the tractor and trailer to enhance safety while driving and security while parked. From the comfort of the T800’s new extended daycab option, the driver can view a flat-panel display screen in the cab and use five cameras.

The Kenworth Vehicle Information Center (VIC) provides the drivers with information on fuel economy, loads, service and maintenance.

The company used Bridgestone’s GREATEC wide-based single drive tires and Alcoa aluminum wheels on both the tractor and trailer, reducing overall weight by nearly 600 pounds. Other lightweight components include the new Kenworth AG380 introduced today, ZF Meritor FreedomLine automated transmission, and composite leaf springs.

The brake system features Dana Spicer 16.5 x 5 front drum brakes. To assist the driver with pre-trip inspections, the MGM e-Stroke brake monitoring system is integrated into the Kenworth Vehicle Information Center for real-time diagnostics.