Autocar designed its Badass waste collection vehicles as the nation’s first of refuse trucks featuring ADAS (Advanced Driver Assist System).
“As part of Autocar’s efforts to address various safety challenges, we built a custom test chassis, which included the ADAS technology,” says James Johnston, president, Autocar Trucks. To ensure consistent performance, Autocar tested trucks in a variety of road, traffic, and weather conditions—including Michigan’s harsh winter conditions.
Autocar’s pioneering ADAS-equipped truck boasts the following features:
- Advanced Emergency Braking System (AEBS): Vehicle detects an impending collision and actively engages emergency brakes
- Forward Collision Warning (FCW): Operator visibly and audibly warned of an impending collision
- Stationary Merge Assistant (SMA): Steady light located on the A-pillar illuminates with audible warning
- Blind Spot Detection (BSD): Flashing light located on the A-pillar warns operator of a vehicle in his blind spot
- Electronic Stability Controls (ESC): Actively intervene when vehicle is understeering or oversteering in order to maintain vehicle stability
- Rollover Stability Controls (RSC): Intervenes when vehicle is at risk for operator-induced rollover event
Autocar tested the ADAS hardware to confirm that the ADAS system can handle the severe-duty environment of the refuse industry.
When it comes to real-world applications, Autocar’s ACX severe-duty refuse trucks feature intuitive technology that “sets a new standard for safety for drivers, customers, and communities,” according to Longwood, Florida-based WastePro. The privately-owned waste collection, recycling, processing, and disposal company was the first client to purchase Autocar’s new refuse trucks.
While operator awareness, training, and attention remain a critical element of truck safety, ADAS-equipped trucks are an important tool to assist the operator in safely performing their job.
Find out more, visit www.autocartruck.com.
