May 19, 2009 8:47 AM

Larry Proehl uses the Kenworth GPS system to find his next stop.

When Larry Proehl delivers temperature-sensitive cargo to new delivery locations on his regular route to the West Coast, he doesn’t have to spend precious time looking for street signs and landmarks.

The Smith Trucking driver already knows where he’s going, thanks to the Kenworth GPS navigation system in his Kenworth T660. Proehl simply touches the screen on his system to call up his next destination, and then listens to turn-by-turn directions through his truck’s sound system.

“I usually have to drive at night to meet specific delivery schedules set up by customers,” Proehl said. “When it’s dark, it can be tough to see street signs, particularly at intersections. A lot of times I may not see the sign until I’m practically halfway through an intersection, and then it can be difficult to turn around and double back.”

By using this GPS navigation system, which is standard on Class 8 models with the Diamond cab interior, Proehl avoids driving out-of-route miles to make deliveries. The system locates delivery addresses, multiple drop routes, dealer locations, truckstops, and other points of interest. Functions include routing, multiple route and waypoint selection, and turn-by-turn voice commands.

Proehl can also use the Kenworth Driver Information Center, which comes standard with Class 8 models, to monitor his truck’s engine speed and fuel mileage. The center provides drivers instant access to current trip data, including miles per gallon, engine and idle hours, idle percentage and optimum rpm range for the engine.

“Both systems help our drivers be better and more efficient at what they do,” said Mike Smith, general manager for Smith Trucking, which operates an all-Kenworth fleet of about 100 trucks, including 45 aerodynamic T660s. The fleet’s trucks all have the GPS system.

Based in Worthington MN, Smith Trucking offers temperature-controlled services to more than 250 customers throughout the 48 continental states.