Fleet Management News & Business Info | Commercial Carrier Journal
Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/759228
22 commercial carrier journal | december 2016 isn't solely at his mercy. The trailing driver can take over control of his truck at any time by hitting any of the pedals or simply leaving the platoon, which severs the radio connection. If he wanted to brake, all he has to do is step on the pedal. The truck would respond as it would normally. The steering automation, which uses an electric-hydraulic system, is unique to Navistar's project, said Scott Smay, Navistar's director of vehicle integra- tion. Many other platooning demos require the trailing driver to steer their own vehicle while the platoon handles speed and braking. Continued on page 23 I 've seen my fair share of pla- tooning demonstrations. One truck paces another. ey change lanes. ey both stop. The technological sophistication involved is impressive, but it's not exactly a spectator sport. That all changed last month along with my perspective when I went from specta- tor to active platooner. During a demonstration at Navistar's proving grounds in New Carlisle, Ind., I was able to ride along as two ProStars synched up for a couple of semi-auton- omous laps around the track. e demonstration lead rig led the other at a gap of about 20 meters, which the trailing driver could ad- just on a sliding scale. Once the lead driver accepted the request to join the platoon, he was in charge of the second vehicle's input, including acceleration, braking and steering. e second truck is controlled by radio frequency signals from the lead tractor. While the driver in the front is calling all of the shots, truck No. 2 PRODUCT REVIEWS, OEM & SUPPLIER NEWS AND EQUIPMENT MANAGEMENT TRENDS BY JASON CANNON Platooning from the passenger's seat Going from spectator to ProStar participant PLATOONING VIEWING: The tech- nological sophistication is impressive, but it's not a spectator sport. DIFFERENT DEMO: The steering automation uses an electric-hydraulic system and is unique to Navistar. NEARLY PRIME TIME: Platooning technology is available but needs refinement – and regulation.