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Peterbilt's Driver Information System Now Mentors Operators
[March 26, 2014]

Peterbilt's Driver Information System Now Mentors Operators


LOUISVILLE, Ky. --(Business Wire)--

Peterbilt's Driver Information Center now features a real-time visual messaging system that reinforces and coaches positive driving habits. It is available for order on select Peterbilt models, Peterbilt Motors Company announced during the Mid-America Trucking Show.

"Optimizing fuel economy, safety and vehicle performance and longevity are goals of every fleet owner and manager," said Darrin Siver, Peterbilt General Manager and PACCAR Vice President. "Our newly enhanced Driver Information Center is a proven way to help all drivers - from the novice to the most seasoned - operate with greater efficiency. This will translate into bottom-line savings for our customers by helping reduce fuel consumption and maintenance costs."

The module is available for Peterbilt Models 579, 567 and 587 equipped with PACCAR MX-13 Engines. It monitors numerous vehicle systems and driving habits to provide operator feedback through a scoring system that rewards practices to reduce fuel use and minimize brake wear.

"The new functionality promotes good driving habits through an in-dash display that provides intuitive messaging and anticipated scoring to help operators shift, accelerate, brake and perform other functions at optimized levels," said Landon Sproull, Peterbilt Chief Engineer.

The display shows operators performance scores in categories such as gentle braking and coasting, as well as total driver performanc scoring percentage. If the system detects driving habits that are detrimental to fuel economy - such as erratic acceleration - or reduce component life - such as excessive hard braking - it will provide coaching tips with suggested corrective actions. For instance, the system may suggest the operator make greater use of engine retarder devices and less brake pedal use to maximize the life of the foundation brakes.



According to Sproull, the system performs both while the vehicle is in operation and while parked, the latter to help reduce idling time.

The Driver Information Center is a 5-inch, color LCD display screen located within the driver instrumentation cluster so operators can receive the information without taking their eyes off the road. In addition to the new functionality, it provides operators with essential data on vehicle and engine functions.


Based in Denton, Texas, Peterbilt Motors Company combines a global reputation for industry leading design, innovative engineering and fuel efficiency solutions, with superior quality to engineer a truck that stands as the "Class" of the industry. Through its 280-plus North American dealer locations, Peterbilt also provides a comprehensive array of aftermarket support programs to complement its full lineup of on-highway, vocational and medium duty products, including alternative fuel vehicles. Customers enjoy industry leading service and support, including preventive maintenance plans, expedited QuickCare services, automated parts inventory replenishment and 24/7 complimentary Customer Assistance through 1-800-4-Peterbilt. For more information about Peterbilt, visit www.peterbilt.com.

Peterbilt is a PACCAR Company, traded publicly on the NASDAQ as PCAR.

For downloadable, high-resolution images, visit:

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