Mar 1, 2008 12:00 PM, David A Kolman

Having the opportunity to try out the OnGuard system, I found that it seamlessly integrates collision warning, adaptive cruise with active braking, and collision mitigation.

The collision warning detects impending rear-end collisions and supplies visual and audible warnings to the driver. Adaptive cruise with active braking supplements the vehicle's cruise control system and attempts to maintain a safe following distance.

When a vehicle ahead is detected traveling at a speed below the set speed, the system automatically decelerates by throttle control, applying the engine brake, and if necessary, applying the foundation brakes until a safe following distance is re-achieved. Once the lane ahead is “clear,” the system automatically accelerates the truck back to set speed.

Collision mitigation detects when a rear-end accident is about to occur and supplies a strong audible, visual, and haptic warning. If the driver takes evasive action by braking or steering around the situation, the system will automatically disengage.

However, if the driver doesn't take the appropriate corrective action, the system will automatically de-throttle the vehicle, apply the engine brake, and aggressively apply the foundation brakes. If the collision is unavoidable, the intervention of collision mitigation can minimize the severity of impact.