Volvo Trucks North America to expand OTA updates for unoccupied VNL and VNR trucks in 2026

Volvo Trucks North America (VTNA) will expand its remote over-the-air (OTA) software update capability in late 2026 to allow VNL and VNR trucks to receive updates while unoccupied. The feature, which lets drivers initiate an update, lock the truck, and walk away during breaks, overnight stops, or other parked periods, marks the first time drivers can leave the cab during an update cycle. VTNA initially launched remote OTA updates in 2025, and the system has already delivered more than 18,000 updates through its Volvo Connect platform in May alone, with capacity to dispatch up to 10,000 updates per day. Since introduction, the remote updates have slashed unplanned stops by 24%. The updates target connected systems including engine performance, transmission, and battery management. VTNA president Peter Voorhoeve emphasized the move as a step toward maximizing fleet uptime without operational disruption. The expansion aligns with Volvo Group’s push to capture a 25% share of the North American heavy-duty truck market by 2030, with VTNA contributing 15% of that target. VTNA’s sister brand, Mack Trucks, also offers remote OTA updates and has refreshed its on-highway lineup with models such as Pioneer, Keystone, Anthem, and Granite. Volvo Connect, the fleet management portal enabling these updates, debuted in October 2023 at the American Trucking Associations’ Management Conference & Exhibition. VTNA first showcased remote updates for opted-in customers and a VNR redesign at the 2025 Technology & Maintenance Council Annual Meeting and Transportation Technology Exhibition, following the VNL’s redesign unveiled at the 2024 TMC event.