Update:
Ihaven't driven the truck in a few years, and it's in pretty rough shape. I started restoring it once again, and it at least runs and drives. The Atari was given away, and I got a Commodore 64 from my cousin for helping him build a new patio. I decided on the C64 as it seems far easier to work with and offers more capabilities.
This project has been on hold for a bit while I focus on making sure the truck is healthy. It is my daily driver, and I want to make sure it is running in top shape at all times. I love the 1980s, and want to keep the technology as period correct as possible.
I am actually switching the main computer from my rare, prized Atari 1200 XL to the RC2014. It is a new, modular computer system based on the Z80 processor, and running Microsoft BASIC. It will give me the option to add features to the truck monitoring system any time I like, and see what is possible with 80s technology in modern times.
Back in the day, one car manufacturing company used an Intel 8096 in the engine control computer. You might find it interesting.