Volvo Promises Less Downtime Via VNL Communications Options
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Volvo Trucks North America provided a deeper dive Feb. 28 into the communications enhancements the truck maker’s redesigned flagship VNL Class 8 tractor offers, including options to reduce downtime, and promised more are on the way.
Launched Jan. 23, the first redesign of the VNL tractor since 2017 is 90% different from its predecessor, according to VTNA, including its communications options.
That includes E-Call, a self-activating crash notification system; a fully integrated electronic logging device (ELD); the Volvo Connect fleet management portal; the My Truck app; and two years of Volvo Uptime Care.
E-Call automatically connects drivers with a 911 dispatcher via a hands-free call in the event of a rollover or air bag deployment. VTNA believes E-Call to be the trucking industry’s first automatic 911 connection. With a subscription to the OEM’s Uptime Care service, fleets are also sent an e-mail notifying fleet managers about the call, the truck maker said.
Volvo says the all-new Volvo VNL is the most connected Volvo truck ever. (Volvo Trucks North America)
Drivers can maintain electronic logs, meanwhile, through the truck’s optional infotainment screen, removing the need for an externally mounted ELD. Logs can also be reviewed by drivers while resting or away from the cab through a smartphone or tablet, VTNA said.
Volvo Connect, which was launched in October 2023, allows fleet managers to see each Volvo truck in their fleet through a secure portal.
Fuel mileage data, over-the-air software updates, details on driver behavior and safety practices, and potential diagnostic trouble codes are all now available to fleet managers, the company said.
Volvo Connect offers both near-real-time and historical data for fleet managers, including live maps to monitor vehicle and route information, traffic conditions, speed, fuel level, odometers and engine hours.
“Volvo Trucks worked collectively with customers on designing Volvo Connect to benefit every area of their business,” said Chayene De Souza, VTNA product marketing manager.
Remote Diagnostics monitoring is being facilitated through Volvo Trucks’ 24/7 Uptime Center in Greensboro, N.C. (Volvo Trucks North America)
By pairing Volvo Connect with expanded remote programming and remote diagnostics, fleets can carry out routine software updates and parameter setting changes while the truck is being loaded or drivers are on break, keeping trucks running more efficiently, De Souza said.
The My Truck app offers access via a driver’s phone to engine fluid levels plus data on potential exterior light faults and low coolant levels. Drivers can also control and schedule the temperature in the cab before arriving at the truck.
“With the new Volvo My Truck app, drivers can stay in touch with their VNL truck from wherever they are, and Volvo Trucks’ Uptime Center remotely monitors the truck 24/7, alerting drivers and dealers to critical issues,” said Magnus Gustafson, VTNA vice president of connected services. “The all-new Volvo VNL is the most connected truck ever designed by Volvo Trucks and transforms the way fleets maximize the benefits of their VNL trucks.”
Order books are set to open in April for the VNL, with production scheduled to begin in the third quarter.
The upgraded VNL is available in six cab configurations:
- VNL 300 day cab
- VNL 440 42-inch midroof sleeper
- VNL 640 62-inch midroof sleeper
- VNL 660 62-inch full-height sleeper
- VNL 840 74-inch midroof sleeper
- VNL 860 74-inch full-height sleeper
All will be powered by the latest version of the company’s 13-liter D13 direct injection diesel engine. The D13 engine is available in four horsepower ratings for the revamped VNL, ranging from 405 hp to 500 hp, and three torque ratings between 1,750 pound-feet and 1,950 pound-feet, VTNA said.
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