Anticipating and responding to changes in terrain – such as accelerating ahead of hills and coasting on the decline – Peterbilt’s new Predictive Cruise technology automatically optimizes engine and transmission operation when in cruise control for maximum fuel economy, Peterbilt Motors Company announced during the Mid-America Trucking Show.

“Predictive Cruise technology is our latest innovation to provide customers with trucks that lead the industry in fuel efficiency,” said Darrin Siver, Peterbilt General Manager and PACCAR Vice President. “By integrating the powertrain, cruise control and satellite mapping, the vehicle automatically responds to the road ahead for up to three percent improved fuel economy.”

Predictive Cruise includes the neutral coasting feature. Neutral coasting utilizes the truck’s momentum to save fuel and engages the engine brake to manage downhill speeds.

According to Peterbilt Chief Engineer Scott Newhouse, Predictive Cruise and neutral coast work together in five steps to maximize the truck’s kinetic energy:

  1. When approaching a hill, the system uses onboard maps and GPS data to accelerate to the optimal speed and adjust for the increasing road grade;
  2. Before the peak of the incline, the vehicle curbs its speed before proceeding downhill;
  3. Neutral coast engages as the truck rolls downhill;
  4. If necessary, the engine brake engages to avoid over speeding; and
  5. Cruising speed is maintained as the vehicle continues onto level terrain.

“Predictive Cruise also integrates with Peterbilt’s Driver Performance Assistant, which coaches drivers with fuel-saving tips,” said Newhouse. “Predictive Cruise is available factory installed for both the Model 579 and 567 and plans are to expand to other products in the near future.”

Newhouse added, “Predictive Cruise builds upon our lineup of fuel-saving solutions, such as the Driver Performance Assistant and the APEX powertrain. Through innovative technologies and optimized aerodynamic designs, Peterbilt continues to raise the bar for vehicles with outstanding ROI.”

Based in Denton, Texas, Peterbilt Motors Company combines a global reputation for industry leading design, innovative engineering and fuel efficiency solutions, with superior quality to engineer a truck that stands as the “Class” of the industry. Through its 300-plus North American dealer locations, Peterbilt also provides a comprehensive array of aftermarket support programs to complement its full lineup of on-highway, vocational and medium duty products, including alternative fuel vehicles. Customers enjoy industry leading service and support, including preventive maintenance plans, expedited QuickCare services, automated parts inventory replenishment and 24/7 complimentary Customer Assistance through 1-800-4-Peterbilt. For more information about Peterbilt, visit www.peterbilt.com. Peterbilt is a PACCAR Company, traded publicly on the NASDAQ as PCAR.

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