ZF adds lane assist to Paccar trucks

ZF is supplying its OnTraX lane-keeping assist technology to Kenworth and Peterbilt trucks built in 2023. The systems are aimed to help reduce the 32% of truck accidents that are due to unintentional lane departures, according to ZF's press release. 

This is the first time the German company’s driver-assistance technology will be available on a commercial vehicle platform in North America.

“We’re very pleased to partner with a global leader like Paccar to integrate this critical safety technology into their newest truck platform,” said Julien Plenchette, SVP of Americas in ZF’s commercial vehicle solutions division. “We continue to work closely with our commercial vehicle customers to provide ADAS technology that can help to make the roadways safer for all travelers.”

OnTraX activates once it determines the truck is within its lane and traveling more than 40 mph, or cruising speed. A forward-facing camera "sees" the edges of a marked lane and enables the lane keeping assist technology. If the tractor starts drifting out of its lane without activating the turn signal, the system, using onboard processors, develops an action plan.

Then, the ReAX adaptive steering module adjusts the steering torque and offers a gentle counter–steer to push the truck back into the appropriate lane. When the turn signal is on, the driver can cross the lane without intervention. The system is also designed to recognize critical maneuvers, due to hand wheel speed input from the driver, and ceases correction during obstacle avoidance.

See also: ZF details ABS-based trailer telematics solution

The OnTraX technology will be produced at ZF’s Queretaro, Mexico, facility.

ZF had also, to demonstrate its efforts toward improving driver safety, premiered its steer-by-wire technology for front axles during a global technology event in July 2022. The technology transmits commands to the steering system electronically, removing the mechanical link between the steering wheel and axle. ZF expects steer-by-wire technology to become pivotal in the coming years, saying it offers better control and maneuverability.