New Bendix Fusion Boosts Peterbilt Safety

The latest generation of the Bendix® Fusion™ advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) is now available on the Peterbilt Motors Company Model 579. This integration brings new, sophisticated safety features to what Peterbilt describes as its most advanced on-highway tractor, enhancing value for customers by delivering exceptional levels of safety, efficiency, and performance. The system is the result of a long-standing partnership between Bendix and Peterbilt, aimed at creating safer commercial vehicles and roadways across North America.

Key Highlights

The newest Bendix Fusion system introduces Pedestrian Autonomous Emergency Braking (PAEB) and High Beam Assist to the platform.
This advanced driver assistance system is now available on the Peterbilt Model 579.
The system seamlessly integrates with PACCAR MX-11 and MX-13 engines, as well as the Cummins X15 engine, when paired with their respective transmissions.
Both Bendix and Peterbilt emphasize that these technologies are designed to assist drivers, not replace them, and that responsibility for safe vehicle operation remains with the driver at all times.

Next-Generation Safety Technology

The upgraded Bendix Fusion system operates using a new forward-facing camera and enhanced software to deliver its newest capabilities. A significant addition is Pedestrian Autonomous Emergency Braking (PAEB). This feature is designed to provide audible and visual alerts and can automatically apply the vehicle’s brakes in response to a detected pedestrian in its forward path.

Another innovative feature is the optional High Beam Assist. When this function is enabled by the driver, it can automatically switch the headlights from high to low beams under certain conditions, reducing the driver’s workload and improving courtesy to other road users.

A Partnership in Performance and Integration

This technological advancement marks another milestone in the collaboration between Bendix and Peterbilt, a safety-focused partnership that began in 2005. The system has been engineered for seamless integration with the truck’s powertrain. It is compatible with PACCAR MX-11 and MX-13 engines that are paired with the TX-12 transmission, as well as the Cummins X15 engine when matched with the Eaton Endurant 12-speed transmission. This ensures that the safety systems and vehicle hardware work together effectively.

A Comprehensive Suite of Driver Aids

In addition to its newest features, the Bendix Fusion system on the Model 579 includes a full suite of existing ADAS technologies. These road-proven features include automatic emergency braking (AEB), active cruise with braking (ACB), and lane departure warning (LDW). The system intelligently prioritizes alerts to help minimize driver distraction.

Furthermore, the entire Fusion system is built upon the foundation of the Bendix® ESP® Electronic Stability Program. This full-stability system provides a critical layer of protection by helping drivers potentially mitigate additional crash scenarios, including rollovers and loss-of-control situations.

The Crucial Role of the Driver

Bendix and Peterbilt strongly emphasize a critical point: advanced driver assistance technologies are created to complement safe driving practices, not to replace them. No commercial vehicle safety technology can substitute for a skilled, alert driver who is exercising safe techniques. Both companies stress the importance of comprehensive and proactive driver training to ensure operators understand the functions and limitations of any ADAS platform.