VTNA said unplanned stops have decreased by 24% since the introduction of the remote update. (Volvo Trucks North America)
key takeaways:
- Volvo Trucks North America plans to expand over-the-air updates to allow updating empty VNL and VNR trucks in late 2026.
- VTNA said remote updates have reduced unplanned stops by 24% and reached more than 18,000 updates in May through Volvo Connect.
- Drivers will be able to initiate updates, lock trucks, and walk away during breaks, overnight stays or other parked periods.
Volvo Trucks North America plans to expand over-the-air software updates to VNL and VNR models in late 2026, enabling updates when there is no human in the truck.
The Volvo Group division initially introduced remote software updates in 2025.
The update will now be possible overnight, during driver breaks or when parking trucks, allowing drivers to walk away from the vehicle for the first time.
“We are always striving to maximize our customers’ uptime and this is an important milestone,” said Peter Voorhoeve, President of VTNA. “Drivers will be able to initiate a software update, lock the truck and walk away, whether it’s for a break or at the end of the day, and return to an updated vehicle. It’s an easy way for fleets to keep trucks running without disrupting operations.”
As tractors become more sophisticated, remote software updates are becoming more standard and the ability to maximize fleet uptime through advances becomes a major selling point, especially on new or redesigned models such as VNR or VNL.
VTNA said unplanned stops have decreased by 24% since the introduction of the remote update.
Remote software updates enable connected systems to assist with engine performance, transmission and battery management.
VTNA rolled out more than 18,000 over-the-air software updates in May, with its Volvo Connect system capable of sending 10,000 updates per day to customers.
(Volvo Trucks North America)
Fleet management portal Volvo Connect was launched at the American Trucking Association’s 2023 Management Conference & Exhibition in October 2023.
VTNA unveiled the VNR redesign along with a remote update for opt-in customers at the 2025 Technology and Maintenance Council Annual Meeting and Transportation Technology Exposition.
A year ago at the 2024 TMC Annual Meeting, the truck maker had for the first time showcased its flagship on-highway tractor – the revised VNL.
The revised VNL and VNR are key components of Volvo Group’s ambitions to achieve a 25% share of the North American heavy-duty truck market by 2030. A total contribution of 15% is expected from VTNA and 10% from sister company Mack Trucks.
Mac also offers remote over-the-air software updates for the fleet. The truck maker has revamped its on-highway lineup over the past few quarters, launching the Pioneer and Keystone models and revamping the Anthem and Granite models.
