Grote Puts Rear Cameras on the Existing Seven-Way Connector
Grote's next-generation 4See rear-view camera uses the standard seven-way connector to carry video and additional trailer data. The design aims to add visibility without another cable or wireless pairing step.
Grote Industries is moving its next-generation 4See rear-view camera toward production with a design that uses the standard J560 seven-way electrical connection between tractor and trailer.
The company demonstrated the system at the American Trucking Associations' Management Conference & Exhibition. Rather than adding another connector or relying on a wireless link, the approach is designed to send video and other data through the connection drivers already make.
More visibility without another hookup
Grote says the system can support multiple camera feeds and additional trailer data. The company positions the rear-view camera as a tool to help reduce backing collisions, yard damage and related downtime.
For drivers and technicians, the simpler part of the proposition is the hookup. A camera system that works with the existing connection could avoid another cable to connect, another wireless device to pair and another specialized component to maintain.
Questions for fleet evaluators
Fleet teams considering a trailer-visibility upgrade should still validate compatibility with their equipment mix, installation requirements, repair support and how video will be used in driver coaching or incident review. Grote says production is planned for the fourth quarter of 2026, making rollout timing and retrofit options the next details to watch.
