Volvo Trucks is rolling out a new version of its Remote Programming services called Driver Display Activation. The new service allows drivers to update software and parameters at any time, from anywhere they have cellular service. Remote Programming Driver Display Activation will be available Q4 2020.
Volvo Trucks’ Remote Programming services allow drivers and decision makers to update parameters and software that enhance the performance of a truck’s engine, transmission and aftertreatment. With the new Driver Display Activation, when parameters or software updates are available, an icon will flash on the instrument cluster screen. At the next planned stop, the driver can activate the update via the truck’s instrument cluster and be back on the road again within minutes.
This new service means that instead of scheduling an appointment to complete uploads, drivers can completely upgrade the software and parameters on their own, from anywhere, without the need for personal assistance from a Volvo Action Services team member.
However, agent assistance will still be available through Volvo Trucks’ Uptime Center in Greensboro, North Carolina. “We still have agents who follow the success of each update,” Makki said. “We believe in having real people behind our technology 24/7.”
Software updates are critical to maximize vehicle performance and uptime, the OEM noted.
“There’s a direct connection between keeping a truck updated with the latest software and reducing fault codes, in addition to the truck running more efficiently, improving the environmental footprint and reducing operational costs,” said Conal Deedy, Volvo Trucks North America’s director of commercial telematics solutions. “There’s a lot of value in each update and the convenience of Driver Display Activation will allow these updates to be done with minimal disruption to operations.”
In addition to system updates, the new Driver Display Activation allows drivers and fleets to change parameters on the truck to alter the vehicle’s performance. Parameters for various applications can be customized and packaged in kits that can set maximum road speed, cruise speed limit, shift patterns, idle shutdown time, etc. This ensures the truck is optimally configured for the environment in which it is operating, the OEM noted.
The new Driver Display Activation will use a factory-installed telematics gateway with no extra hardware required. Every new Volvo-powered truck will have Driver Display Activation available free of charge for the first two years, bundled with Volvo Trucks’ Remote Diagnostics services.
