A major truck components systems manufacturer suggested that more regulations requiring the adoption of active safety systems are around the corner in North America.
Speaking at the Mid America Trucking Show, Fred Andersky at Bendix gave an update on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) long-awaited stability system mandate, Truck News reports.
The rule was once again been delayed – this time until October 2014, although Andersky predicted it would happen a bit after that. “We do expect a final rule to be published this year, however I think it will be more of a Christmas gift as opposed to a Halloween treat,” he said.
He said the rule will call for the use of electronic stability control (ESC) systems, with implementation slated for 2017 model year trucks.
Even without a government mandate, Andersky said fleets continue to adopt stability systems on their own. He said Bendix ESP (electronic stability program) is now ordered on 18% of heavy-duty vehicles. Overall, stability system penetration – including roll-only stability systems and other competitors’ offerings – has grown to cover 34% of new vehicles.
Andersky said he expects the US to eventually also mandate forward collision avoidance and mitigation technologies (F-CAM). He said next-generation systems, which not only warn drivers of stationary objects in their path but also take steps to avoid hitting them, will be twice as effective at preventing crashes.
Andersky expects to see a final rule requiring the use of these systems published by 2017, with implementation in 2019 at the earliest.
