Daimler Trucks asks DOT to allow it to use camera systems in lieu of rearview mirrors

[kscarbel2]

Commercial Carrier Journal (CCJ) / May 28, 2015

Citing it as a way to improve aerodynamics and gain more flexibility in creating new technologies, Daimler Trucks North America, parent company of Freightliner and Western Star, has petitioned the U.S. DOT’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration asking it to allow camera-monitor systems as a compliance alternative to rearview mirrors.

Federal regulations currently require heavy-duty trucks to be equipped with rearview mirrors from the manufacturer.

But, Daimler argues in its petition, modern camera-based systems can do the job just as good as rearview mirrors if not better, and it’ll allow truck makers to avoid the aerodynamic drag that comes with two awkwardly shaped chunks of metal and mirror hanging on each side of the tractor.

Camera systems expand truck operators’ fields of view and give them better viewing angles of what’s happening around their vehicle, Daimler says. From its petition: “Camera systems can eliminate blind spots and furnish an unimpeded view in all directions, encompassing multiple lanes.”

And the aerodynamic benefits, while improving fuel economy, also lower greenhouse gas emissions associated with fuel consumption.

In the building of the Freightliner SuperTruck concept vehicle unveiled this year, Daimler said it hoped to not have to use rearview mirrors in the finished product. But to make the truck road legal — prior to NHTSA’s review of its exemption petition — Freightliner had to equip the rig with a small mirror on each side.

However, as you can see in the photos below, they’re not really needed, as Freightliner also equipped the SuperTruck with the camera-monitoring system that could make rearview mirrors obsolete.

Here are photos of both the SuperTruck’s rearview mirror setup and the one used in the Freightliner Inspiration, the company’s recently revealed semi-autonomous truck:

Supporting photographs: http://www.ccjdigital.com/daimler-trucks-asks-dot-to-allow-it-to-use-camera-systems-in-lieu-of-rearview-mirrors-with-photos/

[j_martell]

Now that would take some getting used to.

[Timmyb]

For me personally, I wouldn't have it on my truck. Reliability is everything to me, and nothing more reliable than a bit of mirrored glass bolted to the door.

They don't mention how much saving they would expect to get?

[RowdyRebel]

With the electrical gremlins that can and do have a tendency to show up at the most inopportune times, the LESS electronics on a truck the better.

[41chevy]

Since a lot of places I go are dusty or muddy and crap tossed up from normal roads, how you keep the lenses clean?

I look at anything electronic or computer controlled as a cause of grief in the real world. I'll stick with my old technology.

[fullfuel01]

I have one backup camera on my 2011 Chevy. pure Junk. always blocked from dust/snow/dirt.

In my opinion it's just perfect for super trucker. million of excuses to explain their stupidity by accusing the camera.