The Intellipark system replaces the traditional push-and-pull switches.Bendix introduced Tuesday at the North American Commercial Vehicle show in Atlanta several new products and updates to existing offerings, including a software update for its Wingman Fusion collision mitigation system and a new system designed to prevent truck rollaways.
The Intellipark system is an electronic parking brake that automatically engages truck and trailer air brakes if a driver forgets to and exits the vehicle, leaving the truck vulnerable to rollaways. Bendix says 60 percent of fleets surveyed in a Frost & Sullivan survey said they had experienced a rollaway incident within the previous two years. Intellipark works through interlocks installed in critical areas, such as the seat, seat belt, or cab door – engaging the brake if the driver leaves the seat or opens the door without setting it first.
In addition to rollaway prevention, the system makes it easier for drivers to engage air brakes manually, Bendix says, replacing the push-and-pull switches with more ergonomic switches. The company did not say when the system would be available, but that it would provide updates at a later date.
Bendix also announced that its Wingman Fusion system will be available for a software update in the middle of next year. The collision mitigation system uses both camera and radar systems to provide active braking to prevent rear-end collisions, as well as lane departure warnings, adaptive cruise control and more.
The company also introduced a new line of spring brakes, dubbed the EnduraSure and EnduraSure Pro. The new series offers enhanced durability and performance over its previous EverSure spring brake, says Bendix. The brakes offer weight savings and improved corrosion resistance, as well as a longer life, the company says.
Bendix also touted air disc brakes as a key component of the industry’s future. Take rates of the brakes, which offer a lower cost of ownership and reduced stopping distance, continue to grow, so much so that Bendix has invested in a new assembly line facility in Bowling Green, Kentucky, to increase its capacity to meet demand.
The company unveiled a new online tool, ValueByBendix.com, where truck buyers can run cost comparisons on air disc brakes versus drum brakes.
