PRESS RELEASE
Rockwell WABCO Announces Compact ABS Electronic Control Unit
24 March 1997
Rockwell WABCO Expands ABS Product Line, Introduces New Compact ABS Electronic Control Unit
LOUISVILLE, Ky., March 21 -- Rockwell WABCO Vehicle Control
Systems has announced the launch of a new compact electronic control unit
(ECU) for its latest generation of tractor anti-lock braking systems (ABS).
Specially designed for users who do not require the automatic traction control
(ATC) function, the innovative new ECU is approximately half the size of a
full-function ECU, and is designed to perform ABS functions only, without
compromise in ABS performance or diagnostics.
The new ABS-only ECU, introduced here at the Mid-America Trucking Show,
features fewer components, less wiring and a lighter weight design than other
ECUs for easier installation. The ECU provides the same performance and
reliability as the company's other ECU models, but is designed in a more
compact package. The ECU is now available and will be used for Rockwell
WABCO cab-mounted, four sensor ABS configurations.
"This innovative new design, developed to meet industry demands for
expanded options, will offer truck manufacturers the added benefit of
increased flexibility in their packaging," said Leonard C. Buckman, president
and general manager of Rockwell WABCO. "As a key component in our
newest generation ABS, this new ECU is the latest evolution in our continuous
process of introducing innovative new products that specifically focus on
the needs of the North American market, and further demonstrates Rockwell
WABCO's leadership position in ABS technology."
Functioning as the "brain" of the ABS, the new ECU utilizes state-of-the-
art electronics and electrical connectors that are indexed for easier
installation and greater reliability.
"The benefit of having a variety of different ECUs to choose from is among
the numerous advantages that Rockwell WABCO's new generation ABS provides,"
Buckman said. "To meet virtually any vehicle application and any need,
customers can select either a full-function ECU with ATC capability or our new
ABS-only ECU for users that do not require the ATC function."
Rockwell WABCO's new generation ABS features fewer components and improved
diagnostic functions for increased reliability and simplified maintenance. In
addition, Rockwell WABCO ABS helps provide controlled braking, while enhancing
vehicle stability, driver control and stable stopping during emergency
situations or adverse conditions.
In addition, ABS can prevent wheel lock-up, spin-out and loss of steering
control, which helps avoid accidents and reduce damage to cargo and equipment.
By reducing accidents, ABS can help stabilize or even lower insurance costs,
as well as downtime and maintenance expenses.
"Our new generation ABS for trucks, tractors and buses is a perfect
example of how Rockwell WABCO has turned an innovative idea into today's
technology to provide our customers the performance advantages they need to
meet the challenges of the 21st Century," said Prakash Mulchandani, president
of Rockwell's Worldwide Truck and Trailer Systems business.
Rockwell WABCO ABS is currently standard equipment on Class 8 tractors
produced by Freightliner, Kenworth, Mack, Peterbilt, Volvo and Western Star.
Additionally, Rockwell WABCO ABS is available as optional equipment at all
other major truck/tractor OEMs and at most coach and specialty vehicle OEMs.
In total, more than 4,000 large, medium and small fleets have specified
Rockwell WABCO ABS for its safety and operational benefits.
In addition to tractors, more than 85 trailer manufacturers currently
provide production installations of Rockwell WABCO ABS. Configurations for
the company's trailer ABS are available for virtually any type of air-braked
trailer including dry vans, flatbeds, tankers, auto haulers and other
specialty trailers.
Rockwell WABCO is a joint venture of Rockwell Heavy Vehicle Systems, Inc.,
and the WABCO Automotive Products Group of American Standard
Companies Inc. .
Rockwell Heavy Vehicle Systems World Wide Web Site Address:
http://www.heavyvehicle.rockwell.com.
SOURCE Rockwell Automotive
CONTACT: D. Mike Pennington, 810-435-1933, dmpennin@auto.rockwell.com,
or Susan M. Podkowa, 810-435-1182, or smpodkow@auto.rockwell.com,
both of Rockwell