Truck manufacturer Scania has revealed its new digital Smart Dash that it says opens the way to smarter, safer and better truck driving experiences for all kinds of drivers. Its modular build and digital solutions are the latest technology offering in the company’s quest to transform the transportation industry and make it smarter and more sustainable.
With the Scania Smart Dash HMI the driver can choose which information to display or omit and the whole set-up has been designed to be intuitive and user-friendly with a mix of physical and digital controls without cognitive overload.
It features two displays, the first in front of the driver and a central information display that is available in 10.1in or 12.9in sizes. The driver can give input via the touchscreen, by pushing buttons or by voice control. Scania says it has chosen to go with a mix of physical and digital controls to avoid the common issue of hiding vital functions one or two levels down in a menu.
“The most well-used functions should of course be readily available,” said Eduardo Landeo, product manager, Scania Trucks. “It is all about offering the drivers the best possible experience and making sure that new technology always supports the drivers rather than annoying them or bringing cognitive overload. Or even, in the worst-case scenarios, create situations where their focus wanders from the road and direct vision to adjust basic things such as the interior temperature.”
“With this introduction, we open up a digital and connected spectrum that will benefit drivers as well as fleet owners and fleet managers,” he said. “Smart and safe trucks will bring increased productivity, fewer accidents and safer drivers. The driver will experience that their working tool really supports them, providing everything from information about the truck itself and possible hazards to general guidance and their favorite podcasts with crystal-clear sound.”
Customers’ expectations of connected vehicles and active safety features are constantly rising. The company says its new Smart Dash meets these trends with a user-friendly and modular digital interface that includes both over-the-air updates and 5G potential.
