Continental to showcase connected tech solutions at IAA CVs next month

In modern trucks and buses, around 170 sensors record data, more than 90 ECUs process the data, and roughly 150 actuators convert the data into mechanical movement.

Thanks to the Internet, the data can be shared easily and external information can be added to them. Increased connectivity paves the way for new applications and services for handling performance, vehicle management, logistics, and automated driving.

Continental will be presenting several examples of this at this year's International Motor Show Commercial Vehicles (IAA Commercial Vehicles) in Hanover next month. At Stand A06 in Hall 17, visitors will be able to see for themselves how the ContiPressureCheck system monitors the pressure and temperature of all tyres consistently, even while driving. This saves fuel and reduces the risk of a flat tyre. The dynamic eHorizon, a sensor system that supplies vehicles with real-time information, creates even more potential savings and provides additional safety. This allows the handling performance to be adapted to the current traffic situation in good time.

How Dynamic eHorizon knows the traffic situation in detail

It is estimated that trucks with eHorizon from Continental have saved nearly 300 million litres of diesel, or around 383 million euros (Rs 2,927 crore), since 2012. The sensor system uses highly accurate topographical route data and a GPS signal to provide the control units in the vehicle with information about the route ahead. These then adapt the driving style and speed automatically.

Continental says it is continuously developing this successful series product. The final stage of expansion, the dynamic eHorizon, is a highly accurate information carrier that is always up to date. Thanks to real-time information, it even takes into account dynamic events such as weather, accidents, or traffic jams.

Several applications will be used at the IAA to demonstrate the advantages of the system. If the data sources report a traffic jam or roadworks, for example, the dynamic eHorizon forwards this information to the control units. These then prompt the vehicle to coast or shift down a gear. By providing this information in good time, the system not only saves fuel, but can prevent serious accidents by warning drivers of dangers they cannot yet see, such as the tail of a traffic jam around a bend. The technology therefore forms an important basis for automated driving. The dynamic eHorizon also anticipates the road ahead and is just as efficient in urban traffic. With data on traffic light phases, the vehicle can implement an optimum driving strategy.
 

The ContiPressureCheck sensors inside the tyres monitor the pressure and temperature of all tyres on the vehicle continuously, during travel. Data is recorded constantly and shown to the driver on a display. 

Connected tyre pressure monitoring at low overall costs

Low tyre pressure often results in high operating costs for trucks and buses. In tests on its own test tracks, Continental was able to show that fuel consumption over 100 kilometres increases by 0.7 litres when the tyre pressure in a fully loaded truck is just 2 bar too low. 

The day-to-day stress experienced by drivers often distracts them from keeping a constant eye on tyre pressure. This is where the ContiPressureCheck system can help. It uses sensors inside the tyres to monitor the pressure and temperature of all tyres on the vehicle continuously, during travel and in real time. The data are recorded constantly and shown to the driver on a display. If the tyre pressure deviates from the nominal value, the system issues a warning immediately. This enables the driver to take instant measures to eliminate the problem and restore the tyre pressure to the normal value. 

The system therefore helps to reduce fuel consumption and tyre wear while at the same time increasing the service life. With increased efficiency and a longer tyre service life, the operating costs of the fleet are reduced. Operators can reduce their operating costs by approximately €1,200 per vehicle per year while improving safety for drivers and vehicles alike. Thanks to a reduction in CO₂ emissions,

ContiPressureCheck is quick and easy to install and can also be retrofitted at a later point when the tires are changed. It is compatible with various telematics systems. It is integrated in the VDO TIS-Web fleet management software from Continental. Fleet managers can see the tyre pressure and temperature data directly on their screen. They can use this information to react proactively to tyre pressure that is too low and consequently maintain the value of the carcass for the entire service life of the tyre.