Predictive Powertrain Control

Predictive Powertrain Control (PPC) actively controls speed, braking and automated transmission functions. PPC has been shown to reduce collisions by up to 20% and reduce fuel consumption by approximately 5%, lowering CO2 emissions.

PPC is a Level 1 ADAS function, according to the five levels of autonomous driving described by the Society of Automobile Engineers (SAE).

In combination with the TomTom ADAS Map, PPC systems are familiar with road topography, curvature, speed limit and traffic signs, meaning trucks, passenger and electric vehicles can automatically respond in a manner that delivers the most fuel-efficient performance, and increase driver safety and comfort by accurately anticipating and responding to the road ahead.

The ADAS Map is used to determine the safest and most efficient speed and knows when to slow down for upcoming curves and junctions, communicating with the vehicle’s system to automatically change the speed. This ensures that the speed is safe and comfortable. It also avoids sharp braking and sudden acceleration, which is not only unsafe but fuel inefficient.

User reviews indicate that PPC sometimes even takes curves at a faster but more appropriate speed than human drivers, as it knows the road geometry ahead.

PPC can also enable pro-active gear shifting, based on ADAS Map content. For example, if the vehicle knows it is approaching a steep hill, it will shift accordingly on its own. The TomTom ADAS Map also provides gradient and speed limit information that is used as input for coasting. In combination, these automated functions contribute to up to 5% in fuel savings for our customer Daimler Trucks.