“Smartphones on wheels” – Volvo Trucks accelerates automatic software updates

Volvo Trucks North America has significantly expanded deployment of automatic over-the-air software updates. In just six months, the number of Volvo trucks running the latest software has increased from 25% to more than 80%. The result? A 24% reduction in unplanned stops, boosting uptime for fleets and drivers.

“Our new trucks here in North America — the all-new Volvo VNL and the all-new Volvo VNR — function much like smartphones on wheels. A truck delivered today will not be the same truck one year later; it continues to evolve,” said Peter Voorhoeve, president, Volvo Trucks North America. “With automated updates, fleets no longer need to manage software versions or request releases. Their trucks simply stay current, allowing us to continuously enhance performance, efficiency and uptime based on our customers’ needs.”

10,000 updates per day
Since large-scale deployment six months ago, the percentage of connected trucks operating on the latest software has risen from 25% to more than 80%. Successful updates have increased from roughly 1,000 per month to about 1,000 per day. The connected fleet is evaluated daily and can automatically dispatch up to 10,000 updates per day. Much like automatic updates on a smartphone, software is now delivered seamlessly in the background, reducing fleet workload while keeping trucks continuously up to date and performing at their best.

Updates while taking a break
Drivers are notified when an update is available and can initiate installation while parked or during scheduled breaks, avoiding disruption to operations. Previously, fleet managers needed to contact Volvo customer service to update the software over the air or visit a dealer workshop. With automatic software updates — still unique in the trucking industry — installation can now be completed at a time that fits the fleet’s schedule.

Just as a smartphone evolves through regular updates, Volvo trucks receive software enhancements that optimize engine, transmission and battery management systems without requiring dealer visits or manual intervention. The result is a vehicle that continuously develops over time — and so far, 24% fewer unplanned stops.

Less than 1% opted out
Before making automatic over-the-air software updates the default setting, Volvo Trucks worked closely with customers to explain the benefits and ensure transparency. Less than 1% chose to opt out.

“Fleets see real value in keeping their trucks continuously updated,” said Voorhoeve. “The results so far are impressive — fewer faults, fewer unplanned stops, and more uptime where it matters — on the road.”

CAPTION: Volvo Trucks North America now automatically delivers over-the-air updates of the latest software to thousands of trucks each day.