Bendix announces SafetyDirect upgrades at TMC

Bendix Commerical Vehicle Systems LLC unveiled equipment upgrades and next-generation components to enhance its SafetyDirect system at TMC. 

A high-resolution forward-looking camera, continuous video recording (DVR), increased computing power, on-board connectivity and cyber security and an optional in-cab driver-facing camera supported by SafetyDirect are among the improvements now available. The equipment will also be able to take full advantage of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity for near-vehicle communication. 

“Today’s advanced safety systems generate an incredible amount of truly valuable information – including video – and these tools will further enable fleets to make the best and most efficient use of this data in their safety and driver training efforts,” said TJ Thomas, Bendix director of marketing and customer solutions – Controls. “Additionally, as the improved hardware is put into production on new installs, the individual components will be available as upgrades onto existing systems, varying from vehicle to vehicle depending on what’s already in place.”    

SafetyDirect by Bendix CVS is a user-friendly web portal that provides fleet operators with comprehensive feedback on their fleet and drivers, along with videos of severe events. The system wirelessly transmits real-time data and event-based information from a vehicle’s J1939 network to the fleet’s back office for analysis.  

Bendix announced the new hardware for SafetyDirect – the only video-based driver safety solution combined with an active safety system and available for installation on the production line at all of the major OEs – at the American Trucking Associations’ 2019 Technology Maintenance Council (TMC) Annual Meeting and Transportation Technology Exhibition in Atlanta. 

The forward-facing camera upgrade provides high-resolution footage to SafetyDirect. An additional driver-facing camera is also an option. There is on-board connectivity via Bluetooth®and Wi-Fi included for data transfer and Driver ID. The processor offers increased cyber security protection, providing the foundation for future next-generation enhancements. 

This action is part of a phased introduction of robust new features and advanced functionality for SafetyDirect expected to occur throughout 2019. 

“No advanced safety technology can replace the need for safe, alert drivers practicing safe driving habits, as well as the importance of comprehensive and proactive driver training,” Thomas said. “That’s why Bendix focuses not just on developing vehicle safety systems, but on giving fleets the best tools and actionable information to help reinforce drivers’ best practices and improve their training programs.” 

Current and future generations of SafetyDirect are part of the suite of advanced safety technologies available today within the Bendix Retrofit Upgrade Program, a program that enables professional installation of an expanding portfolio of Bendix safety solutions to upgrade vehicles that did not come factory-equipped. The Bendix Retrofit Upgrade Program features two key elements: a comprehensive website that enables vehicle operators to determine retrofit opportunities per vehicle, and an escalating network of Bendix Authorized Retrofit Dealers and Distributors (ARDs) to facilitate the professional installation.  

Bendix also announced a new mobile device application that will pair with the SafetyDirect system to enhance fleet safety and driver training efforts. 

“The app is called SafetyDirect Mobile. It is fully compatible with our powerful new fifth-generation SafetyDirect processor and our AutoVue® LDW 5G platform, and it has been developed to enhance the new features provided by our new hardware,” Thomas said. “It means when you are standing next to the vehicle, you will be able to directly connect to the SafetyDirect processor – using Wi-Fi – and stream SafetyDirect video directly to the app. That’s a very powerful tool – and an industry first.” 

Bendix expects to launch the app in the third quarter of this year, in conjunction with other safety system upgrades announced at the American Trucking Associations’ 2019 Technology Maintenance Council (TMC) Annual Meeting and Transportation Technology Exhibition in Atlanta.