Eaton to Streamline VORAD Options on Freightliner Trucks

Tue December 02, 2008
Aggregate Equipment Guide

Eaton Corporation recently announced that VORAD VS-400 collision warning systems are now listed as a published, factory-installed option on all Freightliner Cascadia, Century and Columbia Class 8 trucks.

“With this new option made available to its customers, Freightliner again reinforces its commitment to truck safety,” said Phil Warmbier, marketing manager for Eaton’s VORAD business. “Our mutual customers will be the ultimate winners, with a more convenient and affordable way to purchase the many proven safety features that the VORAD system has to offer.”

To simplify the specification process for dealers and customers, five separate specification selections for VORAD safety systems are now available in the Freightliner data book, including the collision warning system with or without SmartCruise adaptive cruise control and/or BlindSpotter side object detection system only.

“We have been using the VORAD system for nine years now and the systems have clearly had a significant impact on accident reductions,” said John Pope, CEO of Cargo Transporters in Claremont, N.C. “These new options from Freightliner will go a long way in helping us to continue that trend by making the purchasing decision for us much easier. The Eaton technology has been well-received by our drivers.”

Eaton’s latest generation VORAD VS-400, with 77-GHz radar that is approved for worldwide use, is a forward-looking object detection system that helps drivers identify objects up to 500 ft. (152 m) ahead with in-cab audio and visual alerts. It is the only available collision warning system that detects both slow-moving and stationary objects that may present a danger to the truck, regardless of the weather conditions. The new user-friendly driver display features adjustable volume control.

The SmartCruise system collects data from the collision warning system to assist the truck driver with maintaining safe following distance. The system automatically adjusts vehicle speed, based on predetermined parameters, to help prevent collisions. The BlindSpotter system is a side-object detection system that signals an alert when an object is identified alongside the vehicle. If a turn signal is activated, an audio signal warns the driver if an object has been identified alongside the vehicle.

Eaton’s VORAD collision warning systems are supported by a team of Roadranger service specialists. The Roadranger call center also is staffed with hybrid experts to provide additional support throughout the world.

For more information, call 800/826-HELP or visit www.eaton.com.

This story also appears on Construction Equipment Guide.