The application of various electronic modules to commercial vehicles, both on and off highway, has grown dramatically over the past decade.
Initial applications of electronics were limited to monitoring basic vehicle (engine) functions. As applicable electronic technologies have evolved, and the physical size and cost of hardware has been driven downward, additional monitoring, control, and diagnostic features are being incorporated into numerous other commercial vehicle areas.
This paper will provide a brief overview of the evolution of on board vehicle monitoring and control systems, present a snapshot of current applications, and then provide a realistic preview of near term, cost effective monitoring, display, and control electronics on commercial vehicles.