Navistar has announced that is now offering predictive cruise control technology on Class 8 ProStar and LoneStar models.
Predictive cruise uses “preinstalled GPS maps and the latest commercial route data to make adjustments to cruising speed without the need to pre-drive the route,” the company said.
“Because the GPS maps and route data are already loaded, this smart technology will enable fleets and drivers to obtain greater fuel efficiency and reduced emissions right out of the box,” said Denny Mooney, senior vice president, Global Product Development. “As a result, drivers who frequently run different routes will experience the same benefit as drivers who are used to driving a standard route.”
Predictive cruise control works by optimizing cruising speed based on topographical GPS data inputs to maximize fuel economy. It monitors driver speed, engine load, weight and the road grade. As a truck enters certain types of terrain, such as rolling hills, predictive cruise control will modulate cruising speed to correspond to the topography.
“We're seeing data indicating that this technology, when coupled with a Navistar or Cummins engine and an Eaton transmission, can increase fuel efficiency by up to 4%,” said Mooney. “By reducing the need for drivers to make frequent adjustments to the terrain, the system makes vehicles easier and safer to operate, thus helping our customers attract and retain new drivers and be more successful.”
