Photo courtesy of Kenworth.
Trucking isn’t what it used to be. The days of relying solely on gut instincts and good eyesight are shifting—literally. Kenworth just announced a major high-tech safety upgrade for its flagship T680, and let’s just say, this isn’t your granddaddy’s big rig.
Kenworth has officially introduced three Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) packages designed to make life easier (and safer) for truckers everywhere: ADAS, ADAS PRO, and ADAS PREMIER. These aren’t just fancy add-ons; they’re game-changers that turn the T680 into one of the smartest, most driver-friendly trucks on the market.
If you’ve ever wished for a truck that could adjust to traffic conditions, keep an eye on blind spots, and maybe even help out when things get a little too close for comfort, well, Kenworth was listening. And now, the T680 is smarter than ever.
A Smarter Truck for a Tougher Job
Kenworth built its name on power, durability, and performance, but now they’re adding intelligence to the mix. Every ADAS package in the new lineup includes the latest version of the Bendix Fusion system, which combines radar, cameras, and braking technology to create a next-level safety experience.
Picture this: You’re cruising down the highway with adaptive cruise control, which automatically slows down and speeds up based on traffic flow. You’re not fighting your truck for control—it’s working with you. Then, as you roll through an intersection, pedestrian autonomous emergency braking is quietly scanning for any late-night jaywalkers who think they can outrun a big rig.
And because Kenworth understands real-world driving, they’ve added high beam assist—which means you’ll never have to worry about blinding the poor four-wheeler coming your way ever again. This system automatically adjusts your high beams depending on lighting conditions, traffic, and road visibility.
Now, let’s talk about the biggest deal in trucking safety—Bendix’s autonomous emergency braking. Imagine this: A distracted driver ahead of you slams on their brakes, and you don’t have time to react. That’s where the Fusion system kicks in, applying the brakes automatically to help prevent a collision. No more white-knuckle moments.
The lane departure warning system is also a game-changer. Long hauls are exhausting, and sometimes a driver might drift without realizing it. This system gently alerts you when it detects unintended lane movement, helping to keep the truck safely on track.
And let’s not forget one of the most common (and expensive) headaches in trucking—tire blowouts. Every ADAS-equipped T680 now includes real-time tire pressure monitoring, so you’ll know if there’s an issue before it turns into a roadside disaster. No more pulling over only to find a flat that could have been prevented.
Upgrading to ADAS PRO & ADAS PREMIER: What’s the Difference?
Kenworth knows not all truckers need the same level of assistance, so they’ve created two premium ADAS options for those who want a little more control and comfort.
With ADAS PRO, you get everything in the standard ADAS package plus lane keeping assist and torque-assisted steering. Think of this as the truck’s way of saying, “Don’t worry, I got you.” If you ever start to veer out of your lane, the system gently nudges you back on track, reducing the need for constant corrections. And with torque-assisted steering, handling feels smoother and more responsive, meaning fewer sore shoulders after a long haul.
But if you really want to go all in, ADAS PREMIER is where it’s at. This is the top-tier package, featuring Kenworth’s DigitalVision mirrors—and if you haven’t heard about these, you’re in for a treat.
Gone are the days of traditional side mirrors. DigitalVision mirrors replace them with high-resolution cameras and in-cab screens, providing a clearer, wider field of view while virtually eliminating blind spots. They also adjust automatically in low light and help reduce glare, making night driving less of a guessing game. And here’s a bonus—without those bulky side mirrors, your truck is more aerodynamic, which means better fuel efficiency.
Why This Matters for Truckers
So why all the tech? Why does Kenworth think ADAS is worth the investment?
Because driver fatigue is real. Kenworth’s assistant GM for sales and marketing, Kevin Haygood, put it plainly:
“Driver assistance systems contribute in helping to reduce driver fatigue and enhancing the ease of operating commercial trucks.”
That’s corporate talk for “less stress, fewer accidents, and a better overall driving experience.” When you have a system that adjusts speed, monitors surroundings, and steps in when needed, you’re not just driving—you’re driving smarter.
And let’s be real—this isn’t just about safety. It’s about money, too. Fleets that equip ADAS technology see lower accident rates, fewer downtime issues, and reduced insurance costs. In fact, some insurance companies are already offering discounts for trucks with ADAS-equipped safety features. Safer trucks mean lower risks, and that means more money in your pocket at the end of the day.
The Bigger Picture: Is This the Future of Trucking?
ADAS isn’t just about making one truck smarter—it’s about pushing the entire industry toward smarter, safer transportation.
Look around—autonomous technology is creeping in, and while we’re not at self-driving trucks yet, ADAS is a big step in that direction. Every time a system assists with braking, corrects lane drift, or automatically adjusts cruise control, it’s reducing the workload for the driver and increasing efficiency.
Insurance companies are noticing. Regulators are noticing. And before long, these safety systems could become standard across the board. The FMCSA is already pushing for tighter safety measures, and ADAS could play a major role in meeting those requirements.
For now, it’s optional—but soon, it might not be.
Final Thoughts: Should You Upgrade?
If you’re a fleet owner, the benefits are clear—fewer accidents, lower maintenance costs, and potentially lower insurance premiums. If you’re an owner-operator, ADAS might be the difference between a stressful, exhausting drive and one that feels smooth and controlled.
Kenworth’s ADAS-equipped T680 isn’t just another truck—it’s a smarter, safer partner on the road. Whether you’re hauling across the country or navigating tricky city streets, this is the kind of upgrade that pays for itself in peace of mind.
So, is it time to make the switch? That’s up to you. But one thing’s for sure—the future of trucking just got a whole lot smarter.
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Sources
Kenworth Announces ADAS Packages for T680 Bendix Fusion System Overview