The Bendix ABS-6 family includes ABS, Automatic Traction Control, and Full-Stability Systems Class 6, 7, and 8 air-brake tractor-trailers, trucks, motorcoaches, and specialty heavy-duty vehicles.


Introduced in late 2004, the Bendix ABS-6 family includes three types of braking systems: the standard Bendix ABS-6 antilock braking system, the premium system with Bendix Smart ATC (automatic traction control), and Bendix ABS-6 Advanced with ESP Electronic Stability Program (Bendix ESP).

Bendix ABS-6 braking systems are available from most major truck manufacturers, including International, Kenworth, Mack, Peterbilt, and Volvo; coach manufacturers, such as Prevost; and a variety of specialty vehicle manufacturers.

"Reaching this milestone is a testament to the capability of the technology that the Bendix and Knorr-Bremse team developed," said Kevin Romanchok, product line director for electronics at Bendix. "The ABS-6 family has not only proven itself to be the premier heavy-duty air-brake system, but it also enabled the age of robust active safety with electronic activation of the brakes with Bendix ABS-6 Advanced with ESP full-stability technology."

Bendix ABS-6 Advanced with ESP Electronic Stability Program is an ABS-based full-stability system. The system includes automatic traction control and enhances vehicle stability both by reducing engine throttle and applying vehicle braking, based on actual vehicle dynamics.

"The advancement of ABS systems to deliver stability control is a significant event," said Fred Andersky, Bendix director of government relations. "Full-stability control is the foundation of innovations, such as radar-based adaptive cruise control with braking and collision mitigation braking. Understanding the value of full stability, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is considering rulemaking for ESP/ESC on tractors and motorcoaches."