Wabco Holdings Inc. is rolling out what it calls the “next generation” of electronically controlled air suspension (ECAS) systems for truck and bus makers in Europe.
The next generation ECAS system features several design changes as well. For example, its electronic control unit (ECU) used to be mounted in the vehicle’s cabin, whereas now the ECU can be mounted on the vehicle’s frame, resulting in easier, more efficient installation which reduces costs.
ECAS also helps reduce vehicle weight due to the use of lighter components, while significantly lowering noise via improved design of air compression valves and a more effective acoustic filter, WABCO noted.
The company noted ECAS is designed to maintain the vehicle parallel to the road surface at a pre-set level, thus optimizing load protection while providing for more stable vehicle operation. It also provides fuel saving by lowering the vehicle chassis and lifting axles which helps reduce the vehicle’s aerodynamic and rolling resistance.
The system also integrates electronic shock absorber control, enables traction optimization and provides Controller Area Network (CAN) databus compatibility for faster, better onboard electronic communication among vehicle sensors and controls. It also ensures a constant vehicle height selected by the driver for safer loading and unloading, among other functions, WABCO noted.
