As the demands on today’s commercial drivers continue to grow, safety, efficiency, and comfort are essential. Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) are playing a critical role in helping fleets meet these demands by enhancing vehicle awareness, reducing driver fatigue, and supporting safer driving practices across a wide range of operating conditions.
Kenworth has been at the forefront of integrating advanced driver assistance technologies into its trucks, and the Kenworth T680 stands as a prime example of how these systems are evolving to support both drivers and fleet operations. At Papé Kenworth, we work closely with customers to help them understand how ADAS features can align with real-world applications, safety goals, and long-term ownership strategies.
What Are Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)?
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems are a collection of electronic technologies designed to assist drivers by monitoring vehicle surroundings, roadway conditions, and potential hazards. Using a combination of cameras, radar, sensors, and software, ADAS features can alert drivers to risks, intervene in certain situations, and reduce the likelihood or severity of collisions.
In the commercial trucking environment, ADAS technologies are particularly valuable. Long hours, heavy traffic, varying weather conditions, and complex jobsites can all contribute to driver fatigue and increased risk. ADAS technologies are designed to complement skilled, attentive drivers by providing additional layers of awareness and support.
Kenworth’s ADAS Evolution on the T680
Kenworth has continued to expand and refine its ADAS offerings for the T680, incorporating the latest iteration of the Bendix Fusion system. These enhancements are focused on improving driver convenience, reducing fatigue, and supporting safe driving behavior during everyday operations.
One of the most notable features is Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Stop and Auto Go. When operating in cruise control, this system automatically adjusts vehicle speed to maintain a pre-set following distance. In congested traffic, it can bring the truck to a complete stop if necessary and hold it there. Once traffic begins moving again, the system will automatically accelerate back to the set speed, helping reduce the constant braking and throttle inputs that contribute to driver fatigue.
Another key advancement is Highway Departure Braking to Zero. If the system detects the vehicle beginning to leave the roadway, it provides an audible warning and applies braking to reduce speed. In certain scenarios, the truck may slow to a full stop until the driver re-engages. This feature adds another layer of protection during moments of inattention or unexpected road conditions.
Kenworth has also continued to build upon previously available safety technologies, including improved Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Collision Mitigation, Lane Departure Warning, and Side Object Detection. Together, these systems help drivers better understand their surroundings and respond more effectively to potential hazards.
New ADAS Package Options for the T680
Recognizing that not every fleet has the same operational needs, Kenworth now offers three ADAS packages for the T680: ADAS, ADAS PRO, and ADAS PREMIER. This tiered approach allows customers to select the level of technology that best fits their application, driver experience level, and safety objectives.
All three packages include the latest Bendix Fusion system, offering:
- Updated ACC
- Pedestrain Autonomous Emergency Braking (PAEB)
- High Beam Assist
- Lane Departure Warning
- Highway Departure Braking
- Stationary Vehicle Braking
- Bendix Blindspotter Side Object Detection
Each package also includes a Tire Pressure Monitoring System, providing real-time tire health information to help prevent roadside issues and improve uptime.
The ADAS PRO and ADAS PREMIER packages add Lane Keeping Assist with Torque Assisted Steering, which gently supports steering input to help keep the truck and trailer centered in the lane. This feature can reduce driver workload, particularly on long highway runs.
The ADAS PREMIER package further enhances visibility with Kenworth DigitalVision Mirrors, replacing traditional mirrors with exterior-mounted cameras and in-cab displays. These systems improve aerodynamics, reduce blind spots, and provide clearer visibility in low-light or adverse weather conditions.
Partnering With Papé Kenworth
As ADAS technologies continue to evolve, choosing the right configuration and understanding how it fits in with your operation is essential. At Papé Kenworth, our team works closely with customers to explain available driver assistance technologies, review package options, and help determine which features make the most sense for specific routes, applications, and driver preferences.
Advanced driver assistance systems on the Kenworth T680 represent a significant step forward in modern trucking. With the right combination of technology, training, and support, ADAS can help fleets operate more safely, efficiently, and confidently on today’s roads.
If you’d like to learn more about Kenworth’s advanced driver assistance options or explore how they can be configured for your next T680, contact your local Papé Kenworth location to start the conversation.
