DOT TO TEST VEHICLES THAT CAN SEE EACH OTHER
The American Department Of Transport recently announced that the University of Michigan will conduct a road safety field trial of innovative connected vehicle technology that allows vehicles to “see” and “talk” to each other through wireless communication technology in everyday vehicles in a real-time environment. During the pilot, drivers will be alerted to impending dangers in real-time so they can take action to avoid crashes. DOT will collect data from the vehicles in order to understand how different types of motorists respond to safety messages in the real world.
MERCEDES-BENZ OC 500 CHASSIS NOW WITH ESP
The Mercedes-Benz OC 500 RF chassis for buses and coaches produced in Sámano (Spain) is now available for two-axle touring coaches with ESP (Electronic Stability Program). ESP helps to greatly reduce the risk of skidding, within the laws of physics, when cornering or performing evasive manoeuvres. If the bus or coach gets into a critical driving situation, ESP applies the brakes specifically and precisely at individual wheels to reduce the vehicle's speed until driving stability is restored. In the EU, ESP will be obligatory for touring coaches from 2014, for rural-service buses from 2015 and for new vehicles from as early as 2012/2013.
CVG FLAMETEK REDUCES FIRE DAMAGE AND SAVES FUEL
Commercial Vehicle Group – short: CVG - a US company from New Albany, Ohio, is introducing a self-extinguishing interior trim product that is ideally suited for among others passenger buses. Named FlameTEK this new self-extinguishing interior trim product reduces potential property damage and operator harm in the event of a vehicle fire.
GOVERNMENT OF CANADA LAUNCHES A SAFETY REVIEW OF VANS USED FOR STUDENT TRANSPORTATION
Canada’s Transport Minister John Baird today announced a review of the safety standards applicable to 15-passenger vans, a move that will increase awareness of passenger safety among school board authorities. By launching this review, the government can determine the best safety options for students during their trips and help to prevent tragedies on the roads.
NEW BREATHALYSERS LAUNCHED
VDO has launched the Alert J5, a new portable alcohol tester. The breathalyser uses an electrochemical sensor to detect and test personnel's alcohol levels. The device provides accurate test results in seconds and is able to store them in its built-in memory. It is also fully compatible with an optional portable printer.
