Freightliner Trucks, a division of Daimler Truck North America recently introduced the Backup Alert System as its latest safety feature for its Plus series trucks.
Available as a factory-installed safety option, the passive system includes a 7-inch integrated touchscreen display, backup camera, and reverse proximity sensor to meet the needs of drivers across applications, including the popular pickup and delivery segment as well as construction and utility segments. The new system works like those found in passenger cars, providing drivers with a simple transition to their work trucks without the need for additional training.
“The Backup Alert System is an ideal solution for added rear visibility for drivers who have to frequently navigate crowded urban environments, tight loading docks, or busy job sites,” said Aaron Scates, VP of vocational and medium-duty market development at DTNA. “As a factory option, it’s backed by Freightliner, requires no downtime or degradation of the cab for third-party installation, and provides peace of mind for drivers and fleets alike.”
See also: Freightliner produces milestone 1 millionth Cascadia
Fleets can choose either an end-of-frame mounted camera or a fully prepped camera with added harness length that can be positioned later to fit specific applications and body design. The backup camera feed will be displayed on the in-dash 7-inch touchscreen display, allowing for visibility of the truck’s rearview surroundings. Additionally, a proximity sensor will trigger audible alerts when the truck approaches stationary or moving objects. The steering wheel controls for hands-free calling, USB-C port, and Bluetooth connectivity contribute to the enhanced driving experience.
The Backup Alert System complements the Detroit Assurance suite of safety systems, which provides active safety for the Plus series. It provides drivers with additional awareness as they navigate crowded urban environments, busy job sites, and congested roadways. For instance, optional Side Guard Assist detects when obstacles are in the blind spot on the passenger side and triggers audible and visual alerts to the driver to signal when objects are too close. Detroit Assurance is available on all Freightliner Plus series vocational models as well as all on-highway models.
The Backup Alert System is available now for ordering in the Freightliner Plus series, which includes M2 106 Plus, M2 112 Plus,108SD Plus, and 114SD Plus. Customer deliveries are expected to begin in the summer of 2024.
