Volvo Trucks introduced a new way for fleets to perform over-the-air software updates.
The feature allows updates to run overnight, during driver breaks or while trucks are parked, without requiring drivers to remain with the vehicle. The new feature will be launched later this year.
This new capability is a unique advancement in the heavy-duty trucking industry, expanding how fleets manage software and helping keep vehicles up to date without interrupting operations, according to the company.
"We are always striving to maximize our customers' uptime, and this is an important milestone," said Peter Voorhoeve, president, Volvo Trucks North America. "Drivers will be able to start a software update, lock the truck and walk away, whether that's for a break or at the end of the day and return to an updated vehicle. It's a simpler way for fleets to keep trucks current without interrupting operations."
Updates Without Interrupting Operations
The new feature is possible due to Volvo Trucks' new, connected 24-volt platform in North America.
The rapid expansion of over-the-air updates has enabled more than 80 percent of connected Volvo trucks operating on the latest software and a 24 percent reduction in unplanned stops. These updates enable continuous improvements to critical systems such as engine performance, transmission and battery management, according to Volvo Trucks.
"While this type of functionality is becoming standard in the passenger car industry, its impact is significantly greater in trucking, where vehicles are in operation for eight to eleven hours a day." said Voorhoeve. "Any time saved directly translates into increased productivity for our customers."
Volvo Trucks reported that it completed more than 18,000 over-the-air software updates in May, with systems capable of dispatching up to 10,000 updates per day across its connected fleet.
