Peterbilt is making available the Bendix Wingman Fusion driver assistance system and a new integrated Softek NXT suspension and steer axle system from Hendrickson on its Model 579 and 567 trucks.

Bendix Wingman Fusion incorporates such safety solutions as lane departure warning, enhanced collision mitigation and in-lane object recognition to the Peterbilt over-the-road and vocational truck models.

The Wingman Fusion system gathers input from radar, video, multiple sensors and the braking system to create a detailed in-cab picture of the vehicle’s environment. Using the data from these active systems, the vehicle is able to alert drivers to potentially dangerous situations and can even react autonomously in certain situations.

The system is currently available for order through Peterbilt dealers.

Dealers also can order the Fusion system with the stand-alone Bendix BlindSpotter side object detection system with a single option code. The BlindSpotter technology – not integrated into the Fusion system – provides drivers visual and audible alerts when vehicles are traveling in the truck’s right-side blind spot.

“Peterbilt is a safety leader and we’re pleased to strengthen that position by offering the most effective, comprehensive safety system available, Bendix Wingman Fusion,” said Robert Woodall, Peterbilt assistant general manager of sales and marketing.

Hendrickson's Softek integrated monoleaf suspension and steer axle system is designed to save weight compared to traditional two-leaf spring and I-beam axle systems, to benefit fuel-conscious applications such as tankers and bulk haulers.

The Softek NXT system combines the Steertek NXT 12,500-pound-rated axle and the monoleaf spring technology with an integrated knuckle design. It highlights a new, integrated clamp group and monoleaf spring design which are key design features for enhanced ride and handling characteristics. The patented clamp group design also provides greater weight savings and reduced part count compared to previous designs.

The design also simplifies the kingpin bushing serviceability and includes a new double lip seal to further improve bushing life, which can improve uptime.

The 12,500-pound-rated system is available now for order through Peterbilt dealers. The 13,200-pound-rated axle will become available for order by the end of the year.

"Peterbilt is pleased to strengthen our weight-saving leadership by offering this exclusive, lightweight suspension and axle system,” said Woodall. “This is an exciting addition to our portfolio of lightweight options for the vocational and long-haul segments.”