Statistical analyses of crash data in the United States show that a large percentage of heavy truck crashes are rollover related. To evaluate roll stability for truck tractors, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has performed test maneuvers with several Class 8 combination truck tractor/trailers on a test track. Stability Control interventions have been observed with all test track maneuvers conducted on dry pavement. Rollover events have been observed to be mitigated by stability control interventions in tests conducted with the truck tractor/trailer combinations loaded with a High Center of Gravity (CG) load.
This paper discusses the initial test track observations and test maneuvers NHTSA evaluated. Test maneuvers included constant radius increasing velocity tests, J-turn tests, and double lane change maneuvers. These tests were conducted with and without tractor and trailer stability control systems enabled. Tests were conducted under different loading conditions and on high coefficient of friction surface.