Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems has unveiled equipment upgrades and new component options and a new mobile app for the SafetyDirect advanced safety system.

SafetyDirect by Bendix CVS is a web portal that provides fleet operators with comprehensive feedback on their fleet and drivers, along with videos of severe events. The system wirelessly transmits real-time data and event-based information from a vehicle’s J1939 network to the fleet’s back office for analysis.

A high-resolution forward-looking camera, continuous video recording (DVR), increased computing power, on-board connectivity and cyber security and an optional in-cab driver-facing camera supported by SafetyDirect are among the improvements now available.

The equipment will also be able to take full advantage of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity for near-vehicle communication.

“Today’s advanced safety systems generate an incredible amount of truly valuable information – including video – and these tools will further enable fleets to make the best and most efficient use of this data in their safety and driver training efforts,” said TJ Thomas, Bendix director of marketing and customer solutions – Controls. “Additionally, as the improved hardware is put into production on new installs, the individual components will be available as upgrades onto existing systems, varying from vehicle to vehicle depending on what’s already in place.”  

The company also announced a new mobile app for SafetyDirect called SafetyDirect Mobile. The app is fully compatible with SafetyDirect and the AutoVue LDW GB platform and is expected to become available in the third quarter of 2019.

In addition to enabling full SafetyDirect access, the forthcoming SafetyDirect Mobile app will also allow drivers to securely identify themselves in the vehicle. The app is part of a phased introduction of new features and advanced functionality expected to occur throughout 2019.

“Informed fleets and drivers help enable safer fleets and drivers,” said Thomas. “The easier we can make it to reinforce good driving, sharpen training programs, and support the men and women behind the wheel, the safer our highways become.”