You don’t just spec a truck for sustainability in the same way that you don’t spec a truck only for fuel efficiency. Those are important spec’ing considerations to be sure, but safety is equally important, and then there’s connectivity that allows you to better manage your asset. Today’s heavy-duty trucks package all of the important considerations together to deliver on fleet expectations.
Consider the new Volvo VNL, which sports an array of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), in the VADA and VADA-Plus packages. These systems are designed to mitigate risks on the road through forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian and cyclist detection, and side detection technologies. By leveraging radar and camera technologies, the VNL enhances its ability to navigate urban environments safely, reducing the potential for accidents. Then there’s the Pilot Assist system, which maintains a safe following distance, centers the truck in its lane, and moderates speed based on traffic conditions.
The new VNL also stands out for its enhanced connectivity capabilities, which Volvo claims have led to a 24% reduction in unplanned stops. Through real-time diagnostics and software updates, the truck’s operational status can be closely monitored, allowing for preemptive maintenance actions that minimize downtime and extend vehicle life. Such connectivity not only improves the reliability of the vehicle but also supports sustainability by optimizing performance and fuel usage.
It can seem like a lot—a multitude of safety offerings that need operate in concert and connectivity options that offer huge visibility into operations. But if you take one step of the time and understand the packages that the offerings go into, you can reap the efficiency and sustainability benefits.
