Bendix’s Intellipark Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) system is now an available option for medium- and heavy-duty Kenworth and Peterbilt trucks.
According to the Paccar brands, Intellipark is designed to enable electronic safety interlocks and features multiple advanced functions, including:
- Rollaway mitigation: Automatic application of the parking brakes on both the vehicle and trailer if the driver exits the vehicle without setting the parking brake
- Auto Trailer brake disengagement: Automatic release of the trailer brakes when tractor movement is detected
- Smart Unpark: Utilizes interlocks to confirm the vehicle is ready to be parked or unparked through sensors that monitor door position, seat belt status and vehicle movement
“The Electronic Parking Brake system brings a new level of redundancy, simplicity, and assurance to our customers,” says Kevin Haygood, Kenworth’s assistant general manager for sales and marketing. “With EPB, drivers can count on an added layer of protection that helps to mitigate rollaway incidents. While this technology is beneficial for any customer, it’s particularly useful in vocational, P&D, and other applications that require drivers to enter and exit the cab numerous times per day.”
“Safety is a core value and part of Peterbilt’s culture,” adds Erik Johnson, Peterbilt assistant general manager, Sales & Marketing. “The Electronic Parking Brake advanced functions and custom interlocks are the latest in several Peterbilt standard and optional driver-assistance features available to assist our customers in mitigating potential driving risks.”
The EPB system also replaces traditional red-and-yellow push/pull knobs with new ergonomic switches that feature LEDs clearly showing park brake status at a glance.
The easy-to-activate design maintains the recognizable symbols while simplifying operation, eliminating the “sting” usually associated with manual valves, and helping to reduce fatigue and distraction during frequent stops.
