Plymouth Township-based Traxen, a technology developer, has reached an exclusive agreement that will have Ohio-based auto supplier Eaton selling, distributing, servicing, and providing installation support for Traxen’s iQ-Cruise system.
This collaboration seeks to support the commercial transportation industry by improving fuel efficiency and environmental sustainability while helping fleet profitability.
Unlike existing available adaptive or predictive cruise control systems that work independently of each other, iQ-Cruise is engineered to integrate both functions in a single device and applies artificial intelligence (AI) to provide automatic, more natural speed control with significant fuel savings.
iQ-Cruise works with automated manual transmissions, including the Eaton Cummins Automated Transmission Technologies portfolio of transmissions. A monthly subscription fee covers all hardware, installation support and regular software updates.
Traxen’s iQ-Cruise system uses AI, advanced algorithms, GPS, and high-definition 3-D maps to determine the most fuel-efficient driving style for Class 8 commercial vehicles in real time. While driving with the system engaged, it continuously monitors live data including traffic conditions, vehicle load, and terrain, utilizing its automated cruise control capabilities to optimize the vehicle’s speed and acceleration/deceleration to maximize fuel efficiency.
“We are happy to partner with Traxen to bring its unique iQ-Cruise system to the commercial vehicle market,” says Tim Bauer, vice president of North America aftermarket for Eaton’s Mobility Group. “This collaboration aligns with Eaton’s commitment to deliver intelligent solutions that maximize efficiency and sustainability for our customers.”
“Eaton’s broad reach and expertise in the industry makes them the perfect partner to help Traxen scale its groundbreaking technology in the commercial transportation industry,” says Ali Maleki, CEO of Traxen. “Our iQ-Cruise system empowers fleet owners and operators to save fuel without compromising truck performance or safety.”
Initial feedback from United Road, a vehicle and heavy-haul transportation service and early adopter of the iQ-Cruise system, has demonstrated that fuel consumption and emissions reduction can be significant.
“We are thrilled to witness the remarkable impact of Traxen’s iQ-Cruise solution on our fleet,” says Jason Walker, COO of United Road. “Using iQ-Cruise we have realized more than 6 percent fuel economy savings with some frequent users saving as much as 10 to 15 percent. This technology has a transformative impact on our operations and cost structure while positively contributing to a more sustainable future of transportation and logistics by reducing our greenhouse gas emissions.”
The Traxen iQ-Cruise kit comes with an installation guide to instruct commercial vehicle service centers how to install the system. Once installed, users can activate the system through Traxen.
