Dutch pilot tests on eSafety systems for trucks to kick-off in spring 2008

Creation date: 10 April 2008

In spring 2008 TNO, the Ministry of Transport, Connekt/ITS Netherlands and Buck Consultants International will start a large pilot to test five individual systems to prevent accidents with trucks. The aim is to improve safety and to maintain traffic flow. The five systems that are being built in to 3,000 vehicles will be extensively tested over a period of eight months.

A preliminary TNO study in May 2007 established that a largescale test using anti-accident systems can help alleviate congestion and boost safety on the road. While truck-safety systems are commercially available, not much use is being made of them, partly due to the high costs and partly to the relatively low cost-benefits gain for the transporter. However, society stands to gain much more from these systems through the reduction in accidents and congestion, something that could have a positive impact on the image of this key economic sector.
These are good reasons for getting started with testing.

The Anti-accident systems for trucks project is one of the 40 short-term congestion approach projects initiated by the Ministry of Transport for the period 2006 to 2009 aimed at reducing congestion. The study runs through till the end of 2008 and the partners are looking for truck owners willing to take part in the study.