Future Truck Program Position Paper 2004-2: Future Electrical Systems for Protection of Electronics Subsystems Against Momentary Low/No System Voltage

Today’s commercial vehicles feature many ancillary electronic devices, such as recorders, computers, satellite systems, fax machines, printers, etc. In some cases, memory loss and erratic operation of electronic sub-systems has occurred due to momentary low or no voltage levels. The trucking industry has expressed the need for further enhancements to eliminate the effects of low or no voltage. Any improvements made should not adversely affect, and must be compatible with other vehicle systems. This TMC Future Truck Program Position Paper describes the needs of fleets with respect to future electrical systems during the next 5-10 year time frame. It does not provide, nor recommend, specific solutions to satisfy these needs. Rather, it provides manufacturers an opportunity to develop and manufacture products for the trucking industry that meets fleet-driven expectations.

Issued: March 2005