Heavy challenges for heavy trucks

Manufacturers of heavy trucks are using electronics to give drivers more information while exploring various technologies to meet tough governmental emissions mandates.

Improving performance parameters such as fuel economy and aerodynamics is only half the battle for heavy-truck manufacturers; the other half is giving drivers the tools they need to manage their rigs most efficiently. At least that's how Dan Farmer sees it. As Assistant Chief Engineer for Advanced Technology with Kenworth Truck Co., he has his engineering mind geared toward getting better information to the driver. Route guidance based on global positioning systems and cellphone-based communications are among the specific information-enhancing devices Kenworth is perfecting.

“If you look at a truck, there are a lot of utilization problems,” Farmer said. “For example, when the truck is parked because the driver hasn't been told where to go next. Then there are on-the-road utilization issues. Delivering into an unknown area and getting lost - or, my problem, you think you know where you're going, then find out you're supposed to be somewhere else.”