A report on futuristic trucking technology for construction and mining sectors

We are on a cusp when the commercial vehicle industry is about to undergo a huge transformation. These will be in vehicle design, power and performance, fuel consumption and therefore more lifetime profitability for the customer. Technology will play a dual role – first as innovation in the engine, cabin interior dynamics and electronics and secondly as services using the Internet of Things and GPS mechanism to drive the future of Indian trucking.

Here we will discuss on futuristic trucking technologies for construction and mining sectors:

1. VEDX5 and VEDX8 engines

One of the recent innovations in engine technologies is VEDX5 and VEDX8 engines. The former is a 4 cylinder engine designed to deliver the best in class fuel efficiency suitable for on road applications while the latter is a 6 cylinder engine designed keeping in mind the different requirements of applications in construction, mining etc. “The engines have robust and highly reliable Japanese FIE-Fuel Injection Equipment System that delivers optimum fuel pressure ensuring best in class fuel economy. These engines are based on futuristic EMS 3.0. The latest engine management system helps in engine protection from low oil pressure, high coolant temperature and fuel leakage, buzzer operation coupled with exhaust brake activation. This helps in prevention of engine over running and ensuring higher engine life,” informs P Ravishankar, Executive Vice President – Sales and Aftermarkets, VE Commercial Vehicles.

2. Eicher Live

Features like Eicher Live – an advanced Telematics solution for the commercial vehicle industry is a new technology that is being installed in commercial vehicle fleets. Eicher Live is trucking intelligence that drives profitable fleet management, by monitoring their movement, fuel consumption and maintenance needs. “Eicher Live is available as a company installed system in the Eicher Pro Series range of trucks and buses i.e. Eicher Pro 8000 and Eicher Pro 6000. Eicher Live provides real time dashboard data analytics of the fleet, tracking the most important factors including fuel management and fault identification thus allowing customers to plan maintenance. Eicher Live’s dynamic intelligence helps maximise productivity and profitability,” says Ravishankar.

Eicher Live includes features like advance breakdown assistance, dynamic service reminders and pro-active service. Eicher Live also offers fuel management with advanced analytics that includes fuel consumption analysis and measures to improve fuel efficiency and profitability. The major components of the telematics system are a hardware unit (Telematics Gateway), intelligent vehicle electronic module and a mobile sim card that connects to Eicher Live hub.

3. Volvo Dynamic Steering (VDS)

“VDS is our latest innovation that takes steering technology to a whole new level. VDS is by far the most sophisticated steering technology currently available in the CV industry,” boasts G V Rao, Vice President – Product Strategy, Brand & Marketing, Volvo Group Truck Sales – Hub India.

VDS reduces steering effort upto 85 per cent. VDS also significantly reduces steering ‘kicks’ caused by potholes and damaged roads thus isolating the driver from the vibrations which cause neck, shoulder and back pain. Driver fatigue is dramatically reduced thus keeping the driver relaxed and alert.

“Volvo Dynamic Steering combines conventional hydraulic power steering with an electronically regulated electric motor fitted to the steering gear. The electric motor receives around 2000 signals per second from the trucks on board sensors to create highly precise steering. VDS improves directional stability at high speeds and reduces directional deviations caused by gusts of wind or banked roads and when hard braking thus improving vehicle control,” explains Rao.

4. Automatic Traction Control (ATC)

Automatic Traction Control was introduced for unmatched safety and control. “Volvo is the only manufacturer to offer the ATC for mining applications. The driven front axle for Volvo FMX now comes with Automatic Traction Control as standard. The front-wheel drive (4×4, 6×6, 8×6 and 10×6) is automatically activated when needed, providing all the necessary traction. It has proven to be a reliable, highly effective solution especially under severe operating conditions,” informs Rao. Automatic Traction Control is an uncomplicated, reliable solution that requires no driver interaction. A dashboard switch is provided to manually engage the front axle, or to engage all the different locks when the driving conditions get extremely rough.

“The main benefit comes when Automatic Traction Control is not needed. After all, tests show the front axle only needs to be engaged around 5 per cent of the off road driving time, without the risk of getting stuck. So, when Automatic Traction Control is inactivated, the grip of the front tyres can be dedicated to steering, greatly improving the truck’s manoeuvrability. And the fuel consumption is up to 2 per cent lower than when it’s engaged permanently,” says Rao

Automatic Traction Control offers a range of benefits, including:

• Reduced fuel consumption (up to 2 per cent)• Better manoeuvrability

• Uncompromised traction (less risk of getting stuck)

• Ease of operation (demands less from the driver)

• Less tyre wear

• It also helps reduce power train damage and wear since the Automatic Traction Control is engaged only when necessary.

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The latest engine management system helps in engine protection from low oil pressure, high coolant temperature and fuel leakage, buzzer operation coupled with exhaust brake activation.

P Ravishankar, EVP Sales, Marketing and Aftermarket,

VE Commercial Vehicles Ltd

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VDS is our latest innovation that takes steering technology to a whole new level.

G V Rao, Vice President – Product Strategy, Brand & Marketing, Volvo Group Truck Sales – Hub India.