Sprint Connectivity to Be Option on Paccar In-Dash Systems

Sprint connectivity will be available as an option on the Kenworth NavPlus and the Peterbilt SmartNav, Paccar proprietary navigation and business technology systems for Kenworth and Peterbilt Class 5-8 trucks.

Sprint will integrate its advanced network connectivity into Kenworth NavPlus and the Peterbilt SmartNav, which will also offer telematics, navigation, diagnostics and business system features.

"Sprint is a technology leader and we look forward to offering its outstanding mobile connectivity service as a benefit to customers in Kenworth trucks factory-equipped with Kenworth NavPlus," said Bill Kozek, Kenworth general manager and Paccar vice president.

"Peterbilt's SmartNav is designed to provide truck operators telematics, diagnostics, back-office and infotainment functionality to improve productivity and comfort on the road," said Bill Jackson, Peterbilt general manager and Paccar vice president. "By partnering with Sprint, a leader in innovative technology, we will be able to offer Peterbilt customers an outstanding mobile connectivity service."

The in-dash technology system uses a high-resolution, 7-inch color screen and 8 gigabytes of memory. Together, navigation and business systems will be provided with vehicle connectivity services for drivers to easily and safely use while traveling. When a truck is not in motion, the driver will be able to access the Internet and send and receive e-mails to enhance communications with dispatchers, logistics providers and shippers. The Sprint connectivity service is available as an option.

NavPlus and SmartNav also feature hands-free phoning with Bluetooth, back-up camera options, vehicle data, and audio controls, including satellite radio, AM/FM, CD, MP3 and USB. When launched in 2011, the systems will become standard on Kenworth and Peterbilt trucks with all premium interior trim offerings and on diesel-electric hybrid vehicles. The system also will be available as an upgrade on any Kenworth standard trim package.

Both systems were developed on the Microsoft Windows Embedded Automotive 7 software platform.