Freightliner has expanded its 2027 suite of enhancements for the Fifth Generation Cascadia with the availability of the Digital Dash with gateway to Platform Science Virtual Vehicle.
The Digital Dash builds on previously announced 2027 enhancements, including expanded standard safety features for Detroit Assurance with Active Brake Assist 6 and the Gen 6 Detroit engines.
As part of the comprehensive suite of enhancements for 2027 focused on safety, efficiency and profitability, Freightliner says the Cascadia offers a new Digital Dash with gateway to Virtual Vehicle, Platform Sciences’ connected-vehicle platform that enables fleets to access vehicle data and drivers access to connected applications directly from a factory-installed display. The Digital Dash features a 12‑in., B-panel display designed to improve readability and ease of use, complemented by a digital instrument cluster in the A-panel. An upgraded processor delivers a more responsive user experience to touch inputs, providing access to gauges, applications, camera views, navigation, and in‑cab controls, the company says.
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“Equipment investments have to deliver clear operational and economic value for fleets,” says Greg Treinen, vice president on-highway market development at Daimler Truck North America. “For 2027, the Freightliner Cascadia reflects a more integrated approach to vehicle technology, bringing digital systems together with safety and powertrain advancements designed to support long-term operating efficiency.”
For Cascadias built in 2027, Freightliner says Digital Dash can be spec’d with Virtual Vehicle by Platform Science, which integrates directly with the trucks connected telematics platform and in-dash display to connect drivers, vehicles, devices, and the fleet on a single open platform. Through its marketplace, Virtual Vehicle enables fleets to deploy and manage a curated catalog of solutions including telematics services and applications for navigation, workflow and compliance tools, messaging, and other connected apps.
The company adds fleets can configure those applications on an app-by-app and driver-by-driver basis to align with operational needs. With the Digital Dash, Virtual Vehicle applications are accessed directly through the B-panel display, eliminating the need to mount or manage separate aftermarket tablets or other devices, while still accommodating companion devices when needed.
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Freightliner says the Digital Dash is designed to reduce in‑cab complexity and streamline how drivers access vehicle information and controls. Voice commands allow drivers to control navigation, place calls, adjust media, and access key vehicle information while keeping their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.
And Freightliner says pre‑wired and factory-installed camera displays can be viewed on the Digital Dash, helping to improve visibility when backing, coupling trailers, or monitoring blind spots around the vehicle. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto allow compatible devices to connect wirelessly, providing access to familiar apps and functions through the in-dash display, the company adds.
