Kenworth is introducing new vehicle electronics for its T680, T880 and W990 models equipped with the Paccar MX-13 or MX-11 engine.
Kenworth says the new electronic system updates, now in production, enable easier integration of new options into its trucks, while also simplifying wiring, providing control system feedback to drivers (switch visual cues, for example), and leveraging DAVIE4 diagnostic tools to speed service and repairs.
In addition, Kenworth has simplified the process for connecting telematics and electronic body controls to the truck electronic system by providing an industry-standard interface.
“With trucks becoming smarter through highly integrated computer systems, we have transitioned from traditional point to point wiring to electronic networking,” says Patrick Dean, Kenworth chief engineer. “This has allowed for the simplification of wiring harnesses, reduction of the number of physical wires, and improved flexibility.”
A part of the new update is the introduction of a new, advanced vehicle electronic control unit. This central control module is the brain of the electronic system, and has more capacity and speed, setting the stage for additional future releases, including advanced driver assistance technologies and advanced powertrains.
Kenworth vocational customers using MX engines, Dean says, will notice a difference immediately.
“With our new electronic architecture, the customer will get additional Paccar MX engine PTO functionality, including further options for locating body controls, increased engine speed set-point flexibility, smart and programmable interlocks with other vehicle operation parameters, and enhanced driver feedback on the instrument panel’s 5-inch digital display and on the switches themselves,” he says. “For example, the PTO engagement switch will only illuminate if all the necessary interlocks are satisfied. If those interlocks are not satisfied, the central dash display will also tell the driver why.”
