Introduced in late 2004, the Bendix ABS-6 family includes three types of braking systems: the standard Bendix ABS-6 antilock braking system, the premium system with Bendix Smart ATC (automatic traction control) and Bendix ABS-6 Advanced with ESP Electronic Stability Program, the company says. Bendix ABS-6 braking systems are available from most major truck manufacturers, including International, Kenworth, Mack, Peterbilt, Volvo and a variety of specialty vehicle manufacturers.
“Reaching this milestone is a testament to the capability of the technology that the Bendix and Knorr-Bremse team developed,” says Kevin Romanchok, product line director for electronics at Bendix. “The ABS-6 family has not only proven itself to be the premier heavy-duty air-brake system, but it also enabled the age of robust active safety with electronic activation of the brakes with Bendix ABS-6 Advanced with ESP (Bendix ESP) full-stability technology.”
Bendix ABS-6 Advanced with ESP is an ABS-based full-stability system. The system includes automatic traction control and enhances vehicle stability both by reducing engine throttle and applying vehicle braking, based on actual vehicle dynamics, Bendix says. Unlike roll-only systems, full-stability technology addresses both roll and directional stability. Bendix says full-stability systems recognize and mitigate conditions that could lead to rollover and loss-of-control situations sooner on dry surfaces and in a wider range of driving and road conditions, including snowy, ice-covered, and slippery surfaces.
“The advancement of ABS systems to deliver stability control is a significant event,” says Fred Andersky, Bendix director of government relations. “Full-stability control is the foundation of innovations, such as radar-based adaptive cruise control with braking and collision mitigation braking. Understanding the value of full stability, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is considering rulemaking for ESP/ESC on tractors and motor coaches.”
