Penske Logistics, Reading, Pa., is installing the Eaton VORAD EVT-300 Collision Warning System throughout its fleet, following a pilot program on tractors Penske operates for Whirlpool Corp.
The VORAD system alerts drivers to potentially dangerous situations. A high-frequency radar system transmits signals from the front end and side of the truck, monitoring up to 20 vehicles ahead and in the blind spot area on the right side. When a potentially hazardous situation is detected, a display unit on the dashboard emits a series of visual and audible alerts, warning the driver and providing sufficient time for the driver to react before an accident can occur.
In the year-long pilot test with the Whirlpool fleet, there was an 81 percent decrease in costs due to accidents that could be prevented by the VORAD system. There was also a 44 percent reduction in costs for all financial losses due to a legal liability for damage to other vehicles and accident-related injuries.
