Mack Lightens Suspension, Adds Active Steering on Certain Models
[Stay on top of transportation news: Get TTNews in your inbox.]
Mack Trucks announced improved weight savings on its mRide suspension and the availability of its active steering system on certain models during the virtual 2021 Work Truck Show.
The Mack mRide spring-leaf-over-rubber-block suspension now offers additional weight savings for increased payload when paired with proprietary Mack axles.
Available at 40,000-pound and 46,000-pound suspension ratings and with standard track axles, customers can save 140 pounds with drum brakes and 146 pounds with air disc brakes as a result of casting suspension components into the Mack axle housing. Mack is a unit of Volvo Group.
The mRide can be spec'd in the Mack Granite. (Mack Trucks)
The mRide is fully integrated with Mack MP engines, transmissions and axles and can be spec’d in the Mack Pinnacle axle forward, Mack Granite, Mack TerraPro and Mack LR.
The company also reported its active steering system, intended to reduce driver fatigue, is now in production in Mack Granite axle back models.
“Job sites have uneven road conditions, which contribute to wear and tear on the driver,” said Tim Wrinkle, Mack construction product manager. “Mack Command Steer has been shown to reduce driver effort by 85%, improving job site safety and driver productivity.”
Mack’s Command Steer feature combines an electric motor with the Mack Granite model’s existing hydraulic steering. Multiple sensors throughout the truck monitor the terrain, driver inputs and environmental elements more than 2,000 times per second, according to the Greensboro, N.C.-based company. Based on the collected data, the system provides variable steering effort through its electric motor, applying additional torque as needed to make it easier to keep the truck on the desired route.
The truck maker also noted demand for its Class 6 and Class 7 trucks, launched Jan. 30 2020, is resulting in “strong” orders, which it did not specify, and increased interest in medium-duty trucks. — Transport Topics
Want more news? Listen to today's daily briefing below or go here for more info:
