Jacobs Vehicle Systems, has launched its North American Technology Tour, which will feature a new demonstrator truck equipped with technological enhancements to promote better fuel consumption, reduce harmful emissions and improve engine braking capabilities. 

The enhancements on the Freightliner Cascadia show truck include Jacobs’ patented High Power Density (HPD) technology and Active Decompression Technology (ADT) that Jacobs will be showcasing in 2020 to trucking industry OEM executives, fleets, dealers and service providers throughout the U.S. and Canada.

“The tour will essentially provide representatives from all stakeholders in trucking an opportunity to experience firsthand Jacobs’ newest transportation solutions,” said Steve Ernest, vice president, engineering and business development for Jacobs. “With these new technologies, we want to show as many people as possible how far Jacobs has come to support the ever-changing demands of contemporary trucking.”

HPD provides a host of upgrades over traditional engine brakes, Jacob s engineers say, primarily centered on the modern-day need for increased retarding demands to compensate for lower engine operating speeds, smaller displacement engines, and decreased aerodynamic drag and decreased rolling resistance common with most of today’s trucks. Additional HPD highlights include:

• Double the braking power at cruise speeds.

• Quicker up-shifting for better acceleration and hill climbing.

• Promotes faster trip times and increased productivity.

• Increased driver confidence and comfort.

• Improved service brake life.

• Reduces the need for downshifting by providing power at the normal operating engine speed.

According to Jacob’s engineers, ADT operates to offset complications associated with anti-idling regulations by improving engine operation during startup and shutdown. This creates a more comfortable driver experience and helps reduce emissions and fuel consumption associated with idling. Additional ADT highlights include:

• Eliminates engine-shutdown-induced cabin vibration.

• Improves cold starting.

• Reduces starter system wear.

• Increases engine cranking speed for easier start-ups.

• Cost-effective design that easily integrates onto multiple engine platforms.

• Complements start-stop fuel savings strategies.