Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/417162
Peterbilt Showcases Autonomous Assist Driving Technology Advanced technologies capable of autonomous driving highlighted a recent demonstration of a Peterbilt Model 579 concept truck at the Intelligent Transport Systems World Congress in Detroit. "The autonomous truck of the future is an extension of existing, indi- vidual systems already available for today's commercial vehicles," says Bill Kahn, Peterbilt Principal Engineer and Manager of Advanced Concepts. "The vehicle we demonstrated during the ITS World Congress showcases how these technologies can integrate to pro- vide the next generation of advanced cruise control and automation features. Heavy-duty trucks are an ideal platform for automated operation because, com- pared to motorists, commercial vehicles travel a majority of their miles on mod- ern highways, at constant speeds and for extended periods of time." Kahn noted the automation technol- ogies are not driver replacement tools but rather complement the truck operator. "Improving safety, efficiency and per- formance are top priorities for the entire transportation industry. These are com- mon goals we are collectively working toward," Kahn says. Among the existing technologies uti- lized by the vehicle are: s A collision warning system that provides visual and audible alerts to warn the operator of obstructions to the front and sides of the vehicle. s Radar-based adaptive cruise control (ACC) that automatically accelerates and decelerates to maintain safe follow- ing distances. s Lane departure warning systems (LDWS) which use cameras to detect lane edges and striping and alerts the driver if the vehicle is drifting outside of its lane. Kahn said the performance of these technologies is boosted by giving the LDWS the ability to self-correct the vehi- cle through integration with the electron- ically controlled steering system and the ACC the ability to use the cameras to bring the vehicle to a complete stop, if necessary. Additionally, the Model 579 auton- omous concept truck uses the Global Positioning System to add features such as last mile routing, parking assist and new driver proficiency. "Combined, these technologies – while still evolving – increase safety through continuous situational aware- ness, reduced driver fatigue and improved driving accuracy for superior fuel econo- my," said Kahn. The Model 579 concept truck was made available for demonstrations throughout the event. 18 l FIRST CLASS PETERBILT NEWS