Renault Trucks has introduced an Anti-Runaway Automated Park Brake (Anti-RAPB) to eliminate the risk of uncontrolled vehicle movements caused by human error when a truck is idling or static.

The UK initiative was developed in close partnership with a major fleet operator and Renault Trucks’ engineering team in Lyon, the safety back-up device is available as a software and wiring update on all Range T, C and K trucks with electronic park brakes.

In the event of the driver’s door being opened at speeds of up to 1.8mph, the device activates the park brake automatically.

“Renault Trucks Anti-RAPB is a great example of how we are using technology to help prevent avoidable accidents,” said Nigel Butler, commercial director at Renault Trucks.

“Despite advances in technology, vehicle runaway situations remain too common; drivers can get distracted when the truck is idling and simply forget to activate the park brake when they leave the vehicle to uncouple the trailer or sign a document. It only takes a slight incline for 44-tonnes to start rolling, which becomes a very serious problem, very quickly. Our Anti-RAPB solution helps reduce the consequence of human error, preventing the problem before it arises.”

To see the new system in action, watch the video below: