LOUISVILLE, KY--March 21, 2012: A fleet doesn't grow from one truck to more than 800 by being afraid of change or reluctant to embrace new technologies, and through its 40-year history, Smith Transport has strategically grown and led its competition by embracing opportunities when they arise.
“They enter the truck and trailer height and width and SmartNav will route them accordingly to avoid low-clearance situations and other possible hazards.”
That's why when they took delivery of 70 new Peterbilts earlier this year, those units came equipped with Peterbilt's new SmartNavTM telematics and infotainment system.
"It's a terrific unit. The drivers really like what they're seeing so far," said Barry Smith, President and Owner of Smith Transport. "They're exploring and using all of the features. It's so much more than just a navigation device."
SmartNav, which is standard with Peterbilt's Premium interiors, is an in-dash, 7-inch touch-screen driver interface that provides access to a multitude of information and performs numerous functions. It is fully voice-recognition enabled -- a key safety feature -- and can be paired with other Bluetooth devices, such as cellular phones. Additionally, SmartNav is integrated with the vehicle -- not just utilizing the truck's audio or communication systems, but closely communicating with its performance and diagnostic systems to give real-time readouts.
"It's actually like having a mechanic with the driver," said Smith Transport's Director of Maintenance Thad Spiridigliozzi. "Now, if the driver calls in with a truck issue, we instruct him or her to perform diagnostics through SmartNav."
"From there, we note the severity of the issue and handle it accordingly. It may not warrant pulling the truck off the road. It may be an issue that can be handled when the truck returns to one of our terminals. I really see this helping us minimize downtime."
It will also help, Spiridigliozzi said, in maintenance and repair scheduling, as well making sure the needed parts and components are on hand when the vehicle does come in for service.
"The diagnostic functionality of SmartNav takes convenience and reliability to an all-new level," said Landon Sproull, Peterbilt Chief Engineer. "On top of all of the driver productivity and safety features, SmartNav will have a positive, quantifiable impact on customers' bottom lines by helping them keep trucks on the road and anticipate service events."
The Roaring Spring, Penn.-headquartered carrier uses a one-driver truck system and operators with the most seniority are able to select the Peterbilts equipped with SmartNav. Spiridigliozzi said they provide drivers with a brief orientation to the units but there's an easy learning curve for SmartNav and most operators are now using it as an everyday tool.
Spiridigliozzi said it is already making an impact on routing efficiencies.
"The drivers really like the navigation system because it is optimized for trucks," he said. "They enter the truck and trailer height and width and SmartNav will route them accordingly to avoid low-clearance situations and other possible hazards." Sproull said other SmartNav features include:
- Six virtual gauges that monitor key vehicle performance metrics, such as fuel flow rate, pressure and horsepower. This data can help drivers operate the vehicle for maximum fuel efficiency;
- Diagnostic and warning information through the J1939 SAE standard;
- Internet access through an optional modem;
- Eight gigabytes of storage;
- Truck optimized navigation;
- Full voice recognition to enact a variety of functions;
- Bluetooth pairing with cellular phones for safe, hands-free operation;
- Support of up to four cameras to give drivers a panoramic view of the vehicle's exterior to enhance safety;
- A calculator, alarm clock and video playback from devices such as an iPod;
- An integrated audio system that has AM/FM/Weather bands, radio data streaming, Sirius satellite radio (subscription required), USB and iPod interfaces;
- Support of three languages: English, French (Canada) and Spanish (Mexico)
About Peterbilt Motors Company
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 250-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 fueled 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 Peterbilt.