For years, motorists have been wary of big trucks due to their weight and the driver’s inability to see everything that is happening around them. While a big truck is productive for efficient transport and business, a vehicle of that size carries a lot of risks and not just a lot of cargo.
Volvo is the company to go for when safety is the most important aspect of a car or truck. Being the inventors of the three-point seatbelt, the legend still holds true to this day with the brand constantly looking out for innovative ways to keep everyone safe. The latest technology in the brand’s portfolio involves its big trucks, and that is the radar system that the brand is looking to employ.
Volvo Trucks’ new system uses a dual radar system on each side of the truck that detects other road users such as pedestrians, cars, motorcycles, and cyclists who may be hiding in a driver’s blind spot.
“An accident can happen in a split second. Our extensive accident research is based on decades of studying real-life situations, and this new safety system helps the driver to prevent potential collisions. When someone is in the blind spot zone, the system, called Side Collision Avoidance Support, informs the driver via a red light on the relevant side mirror. If the driver indicates a lane change via the turn signal, the red light starts to flash and a warning sound emits from the side of the potential collision. The driver is alerted and can brake the truck, allowing for example a cyclist to pass.”
Berling goes on to say that Volvo’s long-term vision is a zero-accident future where “safety is at the core of everything we do.” The new system is just another example of the brand’s efforts to accomplish the overarching goal of Volvo.
As for the availability of the new system, it will be fielded in the Volvo FH, FM, and FMX ranges with all powertrains included by September 2022. Following the initial rollout, the safety system will find its way into the FL and FE lineup by 2023.
