Sources: Mack Trucks, Greensboro, N.C.; Western Star, Portland, Ore.; CP staff
Increasing emphasis on truck accident prevention, coupled with expedited, assembly stage installation of related equipment and devices, is driving safety device specialist and heavy-duty model manufacturer alliances.
Western Star is offering 3rd Eye Backup Camera and Radar option packages on its 4700, 4800 and other models. The technology can be specified via simple data codes that make it easy for dealers to configure a customer’s system upon ordering a vehicle. Keeping drivers and those working in and around trucks safe “is paramount for all industries,” says Western Star Vocational Sales Manager John Tomlinson. “New camera and radar offerings from 3rd Eye give us a great way to improve safe working conditions.”
“By providing greater visibility and awareness, Backup Camera and Radar packages help fleet owners dramatically reduce their risk of accidents, enhance fleet safety and lower total cost of ownership,” adds 3rd Eye President Darrick Reed.
The Katy, Texas firm’s digital solutions record and transmit driver behavior, chassis and body systems data, plus vehicle surrounding details and live video in real time—in addition to providing operators heightened visibility to help avoid accidents and property damage. The radar system lets truck operators know their exact distance from objects during backing procedures.
Separately, Mack Trucks has entered into a memorandum of understanding with San Diego-based Lytx, a leading provider of video services augmenting fleet safety, efficiency, productivity and profitability. Beginning with LR and TerraPro refuse models, Mack is assessing the firm’s DriveCam, an in-cab camera system that records internal and external events when an abrupt lane change or hard braking occurs, plus Video Services Technology, which continuously records external events regardless of a trigger situation.
“Lytx DriveCam technology can help improve the safety of those on the roadway, as well as inform fleets of drivers that may need some coaching,” notes Mack Vice President of Connected Vehicles and Uptime Services David Pardue. “Lytx Video Services Technology also can help with theft prevention, job site monitoring and driver safety.” — www.3rdeyecam.com; www.lytx.com