Volvo Active Driver Assist is now standard equipment on the new Volvo VNR and VNL series, which helps improve the safety for all motorists. Volvo Active Driver Assist includes Bendix Wingman Fusion, a camera- and radar-based collision mitigation system that is fully integrated with Volvo’s Driver Information Display. Volvo is the first heavy-duty truck OEM to offer Bendix Wingman Fusion as standard equipment.
Volvo Active Driver Assist combines camera and radar sensors to detect metallic objects and vehicles that are stationary or vehicles braking in front of a truck. If a metallic object of size is detected, audible and visual warnings are made to alert the driver, including red warning light flashes reflected on the windshield. Warnings are displayed up to 3.0 seconds before an imminent impact with the stationary object. If the system recognizes the stationary object as a vehicle, and the driver does not take action, Volvo Active Driver Assist will automatically alert the driver and engage the brakes to help the driver mitigate the potential collision. Braking assist is available at speeds greater than 15 mph
Additionally, Volvo Active Driver Assist works with cruise control to help the driver maintain a set following distance behind the forward vehicle. If the forward vehicle slows down, Volvo Active Driver Assist will alert the driver and, if necessary, reduce throttle to the engine, apply the engine brake, downshift the Volvo I-Shift automated manual transmission and apply the foundation brakes and brake lights to help the driver maintain the set following distance gap based on the speed of the two vehicles.
Thanks to the camera input, Volvo Active Driver Assist also integrates a Lane Departure Warning System with Data Capture capability. This system alerts drivers when an unintentional lane change (one in which the turn signal is not activated) occurs and can be turned off by the driver for 15 minutes when traveling through construction zones or other areas where lane markings may be unclear or confusing. The system reactivates automatically after 15 minutes, though the driver has the option to reactivate it manually. Lane departure warnings do not occur if the turn signal is activated or brakes are applied.
“Combining the wider angle of the camera with the radar sensor allows Volvo Active Driver Assist to better detect objects that could be a danger to the driver. Together, by providing the most data about what is in front of the truck, the system helps mitigate the potential for collisions or unintentional lane changes.” - Ashraf Makki, Volvo product marketing manager – technology
Volvo Active Driver Assist with Bendix Wingman Fusion is fully integrated with Volvo’s Driver Information Display and requires no additional displays or hardware kits. Its complete integration enables drivers to more quickly react to warnings. The system is also integrated with Volvo Enhanced Stability Technology (VEST) to help drivers avoid rollover and loss-of-control situations on dry, wet, snow- and ice-covered roadways. Volvo was the first commercial vehicle OEM to make full stability standard on its highway tractors.
The system relies on data from a front bumper-mounted radar sensor and a windshield-mounted camera and offers a series of visual and audible alerts depending on the forward distance of the front object. Cruise control does not have to be engaged for the Volvo Active Driver Assist system to work.
With a detection range of 22 degrees wide and 500 feet in front of the truck, the radar systems can detect the angle, speed and distance of an object ahead. A camera with a viewing angle greater than 42 degrees complements the radar and can determine the size and lane position, as well as other characteristics of an object.
Volvo Active Driver Assist complements safe driving practices and is not intended to enable or encourage aggressive driving. No commercial vehicle safety technology replaces a skilled, alert driver exercising safe driving techniques and proactive, comprehensive driver training. Responsibility for the safe operation of the vehicle remains with the driver at all times.