The Kenworth T800 is now available for factory order equipped with the optional Bendix Wingman ACB (Active Cruise with Braking), a new approach to adaptive cruise control. The system is also offered on the Kenworth T660 and T700.
Using a radar sensor mounted to the vehicle’s front, Wingman ACB helps provide impact, following distance and stationary object alerts – which are always available, whether or not cruise control is engaged. When the driver utilizes the adaptive cruise control with braking feature, the system will also actively intervene to help the driver maintain a set following distance behind a forward vehicle by reducing throttle, engaging the engine retarder or, if necessary, applying the foundation brakes. The driver, of course, still maintains control and can add additional braking or steering inputs to help avoid or minimize the collision situation.
The Bendix Wingman ACB system offers audible and visual stationary object alerts to the driver as the vehicle approaches a stationary metallic object, such as a car, steel drum or other metallic obstruction blocking the lane. The system does not decelerate the vehicle upon approaching the object. The alerts feature provides notifications in a wide range of conditions, including rain, snow, smoke, fog, or at night. The alert – which is always available like all the alerts with the system – gives the driver up to three seconds before a potential impact, helping the driver to respond to the impending threat.
The Wingman ACB alerts are communicated to the driver through the vehicle dash. Active interventions, including braking, are activated when cruise control is on and speed is set. Data from the system can also help fleets focus specific driver training needs where appropriate.
Built on Bendix ESP, a full-stability technology, the Bendix Wingman ACB system provides fleets with help in avoiding potential collisions and assistance in stabilizing the vehicle during loss of control situations on dry, wet, snow and ice-covered roadways and in avoiding a potential rollover.
“Kenworth continuously seeks ways to further enhance its products. The Bendix Wingman ACB system is a good addition for customers ordering new Kenworth T800s for on-highway service,” said Erik Johnson, Kenworth on-highway marketing manager.
The Kenworth T800, which celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2011, is a versatile vehicle that meets a variety of specifications and applications. The sloped hood gives the T800 exceptional visibility and aerodynamics, while the set-back front axle gives a tight wheel cut for greater maneuverability. The T800 can be specified with engines rated with a wide horsepower range, offers several radiators sizes up to 1,780 square inches for added cooling, and has an assortment of rear axle ratings to meet specific customer application requirements. The T800 is built to handle anything from regional hauling to extreme heavy hauling. Kenworth has produced more than 235,000 Kenworth T800s for service throughout the United States and Canada.
For more information, contact your Kenworth dealer or Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems LLC at www.bendix.com.