The Bendix Wingman Fusion proves that technology can be a lifesaver. This driver assistance technology is becoming standard in our Kenworth trucks here at Waller Truck. Of course the Bendix Wingman Fusion is not a replacement for driver training or safe driving habits. The driver is in control at all times while the system is there to help keep the driver safe and enjoy the journey with less stress.

Fusing Technology

The driver is ultimately responsible for the safe operation of his/her vehicle. However, the Bendix Wingman Fusion got its name because it fuses three important actions into the technology:

1. ABS – anti-lock braking system
2. ESP – electronic stability program helps mitigate rollover and loss of control
3. ACB – active cruise with braking plus collision mitigation braking

In order to seamlessly fuse these three technologies there is radar located in the front bumper cut out, a forward facing camera (meaning it’s watching the road, not the driver) at the upper center of the windshield, and the interface unit (the screen with prompts and alerts) that is located within easy reach on the dashboard.

The Wingman is referred to as “collision mitigation,” which means it can help avoid or at least lessen the damage in an accident that involves:

• Impact
• Side swipe
• Rear end collision
• Loss of control
• Rollover

Alerting Drivers to Possible Danger

There are three main alerts:

1. Following distance alert
Above 37 mph you get 3 alerts: close, closer, and closest
Below 37 mph there are 2 alerts: closer and closest

2. Impact alert
If the distance is closing too fast and the system doesn’t have enough braking power to slow the vehicle, the driver is alerted so he/she can add more brake.

3. Stationary object alert
If a metallic object of size is in the roadway there is an alert so the driver has time to slow or steer around the object. Unfortunately, the system cannot detect an object that is not metallic – meaning animal or human.

Additional Alerts

Over the speed limit
The Wingman can do a lot more than just the three main alerts. It can compare the posted speed on the roadway with the speed of the driver. If the driver is 5 mph over the posted limit he/she gets an audible alert and visual warning on the interface. If the speed is 10 mph or more the system will dethrottle the engine to get the driver’s attention.

Lane departure warning
The Wingman system tracks lane markings on the road. If a driver drifts more than 6 inches over a lane marking and is not using a turn signal the system gives a simulated rumble strip sound. The driver can use the toggle switch to temporarily deactivate the lane departure warnings when driving through a construction area or a newly paved zone that have alternate lane markings as these may confuse the system. After 15 minutes, the system automatically reengages so there’s one less thing to remember.

Alert prioritization
If there’s a situation where more than one alert could go off at the same time, the system will prioritize and sound the most urgent alarm first.

At Waller Truck, we know there’s a lot to watch when you’re driving. We care about our drivers and want them to succeed. That means giving them a comfortable cab and sleeper with all the comforts of home (or most of them) and keeping them and everyone else safe on the road.

The Bendix Wingman Fusion gives our drivers a faster and more precise evaluation of the road ahead so they can drive safely and defensively with a little help from their Wingman.

It never hurts to have a Wingman. So if you’re looking for an employer who values its employees and gives them what they need to perform their job to the best of their ability then apply to drive with Waller Truck Company today. We’re hiring! Contact us or call toll free 1-800-821-2196.