Fleetowner 1296 Dtna Innovation1 Sm
Fleetowner 1296 Dtna Innovation1 Sm
Fleetowner 1296 Dtna Innovation1 Sm
Fleetowner 1296 Dtna Innovation1 Sm
Fleetowner 1296 Dtna Innovation1 Sm

Freightliner bundles new technology in Innovation Truck

March 20, 2009
LOUISVILLE. A predictive cruise control that can anticipate changes in road grades is among the market-ready technologies highlighted by the Innovation Truck concept tractor on view at the Daimler Truck North America booth here at the Mid-America Trucking Show

LOUISVILLE. A predictive cruise control that can anticipate changes in road grades is among the market-ready technologies highlighted by the Innovation Truck concept tractor on view at the Daimler Truck North America booth here at the Mid-America Trucking Show.

The proprietary system, called RunSmart Predictive Cruise, analyzes road profiles more than a mile ahead to determine optimum vehicle speed. It is now available as an option on the 72-in. raised roof sleeper version of the Freightliner Cascadia with a Detroit Diesel DD15 engine.

DTNA Video Part 1

The system combines active cruise control with GPS and 3D digital map technology from Navteq, automatically adjusting vehicle speed for maximum fuel efficiency based on road grades while staying within 6% of the cruise control’s set speed. It draws on digital map slope data for more than 200,000 mi. of truck routes in the U.S.

The Innovation Truck, painted completely flat black, is an engineering project intended to show users DTNA’s newest near-term technologies, as well as to gauge customer interest in concepts and advanced features, according to Elmar Boeckenhoff, sr. vp of engineering and technology.

DTNA Video Part 2

Among the highlights of the concept truck, which is based on the Cascadia, are a number of aerodynamic refinements that start with a bumper and “air splitter” designed to reduce air flow turbulence under and around the truck. Side panels and a modified roof fairing also contribute, as do radically designed rear wheel fairings that almost completely enclose the tandem wheels.

The truck also includes a new idling control HVAC system that is being released commercially as a factory-installed option for the Cascadia. The ParkSmart HVAC is fully integrated into the sleeper, using the vehicle’s alternator and engine coolant when the truck is under way. When the engine is shut off, the system’s four batteries can run an electrically-driven AC compressor up to 10 hours, while a diesel-fired coolant heater provides heat to the sleeper compartment and acts as a block heater. Unlike the commercially-available version, the Innovation Truck’s ParkSmart also incorporates a fuel-cell that can provide electrical power to the system for up to 34 hours.

Other advanced technologies on the truck not yet ready for commercial applications include a dual ride-height system that automatically lowers the tractor at highway speeds for reduced drag, BluTec SCR emissions technology that will be used by DTNA to meet the 2010 emissions regulations, and side cameras in place of rear-view mirrors that reduce drag while eliminating blind spots.

About the Author

Jim Mele

Nationally recognized journalist, author and editor, Jim Mele joined Fleet Owner in 1986 with over a dozen years’ experience covering transportation as a newspaper reporter and magazine staff writer. Fleet Owner Magazine has won over 45 national editorial awards since his appointment as editor-in-chief in 1999.

Sponsored Recommendations

Tackling the Tech Shortage: Lessons in Recruiting Talent and Reducing Turnover

Discover innovative strategies for recruiting and retaining tech talent in the trucking industry at our April 16th webinar, where experts will share insights on competitive pay...

Stop Sweating Temperature Excursions

Advanced chemical indicators give you the peace of mind that comes from reliable insights into your supply chains. Compromised shipments can be identified the moment they arrive...

Stop Sweating Temperature Excursions

Advanced chemical indicators give you the peace of mind that comes from reliable insights into your supply chains. Compromised shipments can be identified the moment they arrive...

How Electric Vehicles Help You Prolong the Life of Your Fleet

Before adopting electric vehicles for commercial/government fleets, prioritize cost inquiries. Maintenance is essential; understand the upkeep of EV fleets. Here’s what you need...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of FleetOwner, create an account today!