Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/331982
News & Notes 48 // OWNER OPERATOR // JULY 2014 Peterbilt's Driver Information System Now Mentors Operators Peterbilt's Driver Information Center now features a real-time visual messaging system that reinforces and coaches positive driving habits. It is available for order on select Pe- terbilt models, Peterbilt Motors Company re- cently announced. "Optimizing fuel economy, safety and ve- hicle performance and longevity are goals of HYHU\ÀHHWRZQHUDQGPDQDJHU´VDLG'DUULQ Siver, Peterbilt General Manager and PAC- CAR Vice President. "Our newly enhanced Driver Information Center is a proven way to help all drivers – from the novice to the most VHDVRQHG±RSHUDWHZLWKJUHDWHUHI¿FLHQF\ This will translate into bottom-line savings for our customers by helping reduce fuel con- VXPSWLRQDQGPDLQWHQDQFHFRVWV´ The module is available for Peterbilt Mod- els 579, 567 and 587 equipped with PAC- CAR MX-13 Engines. It monitors numerous vehicle systems and driving habits to provide operator feedback through a scoring system that rewards practices to reduce fuel use and minimize brake wear. "The new functionality promotes good driving habits through an in-dash display that provides intuitive messaging and anticipated scoring to help operators shift, accelerate, brake and perform other functions at opti- PL]HGOHYHOV´VDLG/DQGRQ6SURXOO3HWHUELOW Chief Engineer. The display shows operators performance scores in categories such as gentle braking and coasting, as well as total driver perfor- mance scoring percentage. If the system de- tects driving habits that are detrimental to fuel economy – such as erratic acceleration – or reduce component life – such as exces- sive hard braking – it will provide coaching tips with suggested corrective actions. For instance, the system may suggest the operator make greater use of engine retarder devices and less brake pedal use to maximize the life of the foundation brakes. According to Sproull, the system performs both while the vehicle is in operation and while parked, the latter to help reduce idling time. The Driver Information Center is a 5-inch, FRORU/&'GLVSOD\VFUHHQORFDWHGZLWKLQWKH driver instrumentation cluster so operators can receive the information without taking their eyes off the road. In addition to the new functionality, it provides operators with es- sential data on vehicle and engine functions.