Anti-collision systems are quickly becoming the norm in the automotive world. These systems can detect an impending crash and apply a vehicle's brakes if the driver doesn't react on time or is in some way incapacitated. While self-driving cars are still a long way from becoming a common sight on our roadways, vehicles that can brake automatically are very much a reality.
Sweden's Volvo Trucks, the world's second-largest manufacturer of heavy-duty vehicles, has developed one such system specifically for its semi-trailer trucks. As a video released by the company shows, a heads-up display on the windshield lights up when slow traffic or another obstacle ahead is detected. If the driver doesn't slow down, the display's lights begin flashing. If there is still no reaction, the system will apply the brakes, first gradually and then to a full stop if necessary.
The collision warning with early braking system can also alert vehicles behind the truck to a potentially dangerous situation by making the brake lights flash when the brakes are fully applied, whether automatically or by the driver. Volvo Trucks also published a video showing the system in action, stopping a semi loaded with 40 tons of cargo just shy of a collision.
Greening offers expert commercial vehicle brake testing to help ensure the high quality of all braking systems, even in the toughest of conditions.