Drivers can use the feature during a 30-minute break, an overnight stop, or any other time the truck is parked. It expands remote programming capabilities Volvo first announced in June and is intended to keep truck software current without requiring a dealership visit.

Updates Can Run While the Truck Is Parked

The new process removes the need for someone to remain with the truck while an update is underway. Once started, the truck can be locked and left until the installation is complete.

Over-the-air updates can make changes to systems including engine performance, transmission functions and battery management. Volvo said more than 7,500 updates were completed during August alone, while its connected systems have the capacity to send as many as 20,000 updates per day.

The company also reported that the share of its connected trucks running current software increased from 25% to more than 80% over six months.

Connected Trucks Support Remote Diagnostics

More than 220,000 connected Volvo trucks are operating across North America. Along with software updates, the connected systems provide vehicle data that can be used to identify fault-code patterns and diagnose some problems before a truck reaches a dealership.

Volvo reported a 95% first-time fix rate and said trucks running its latest software experience 24% fewer unplanned stops. The company estimates its over-the-air updates, remote diagnostics and predictive service capabilities have collectively helped customers avoid more than 100,000 days of unplanned downtime.

The all-new Volvo VNL and VNR use a 24-volt electrical architecture designed to support expanded vehicle data, remote diagnostics, and future software updates after the trucks leave the dealership.

The TDUSA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering trucking news, industry updates, safety, regulations, and career information for professional truck drivers across the United States. Each article is built to reflect real-world experience, industry developments, and information drivers can use on and off the road.

Last Updated: September 16, 2026

Source: The Trucker

Image Source: Volvo

The post Volvo Rolls Out Unattended Software Updates for Trucks Across North America appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The guide was introduced in conjunction with National Dog Day and comes as an estimated 800,000 pets travel in commercial truck cabs across the United States. According to Volvo, more than 60% of professional truck drivers are pet owners, and nearly 40% bring a pet with them on the road.

New Guide Focuses on Safe Travel Practices

The free Safe Travels with Your Pet guide offers practical recommendations for drivers traveling with dogs or cats, including how to select crash-tested harnesses and carriers, prepare for emergencies and safely manage overnight stops.

The guide also covers pet first-aid kits, seasonal travel considerations, hotel etiquette and strategies for managing hot and cold weather while traveling. One of the primary recommendations is keeping pets properly restrained whenever the truck is moving.

Designed for New and Experienced Drivers

Volvo said the resource is intended for both first-time pet travelers and drivers who regularly take animals on long-haul trips.

Maddie Sullivan, product marketing manager for Volvo Trucks North America, said many professional drivers view their pets as more than companions waiting at home.

“For many professional drivers, a dog or cat can be more than a pet waiting at home. They are a constant companion through thousands of miles, long shifts and nights on the road,” Sullivan said.

Lindsey Wolko, founder and CEO of the Center for Pet Safety, said the guide was developed to answer common questions drivers have about traveling safely with pets.

Built on Recent Pet Safety Research

The recommendations follow a recent evaluation of Volvo’s all-new VNL conducted at the Volvo Customer Center in Dublin, Virginia.

During the project, Center for Pet Safety researchers examined the truck’s anchor points, restraint options and climate control systems while also evaluating how certified harnesses and carriers performed during real-world driving conditions. The evaluation found that the Volvo VNL’s strength-tested anchor points are compatible with Center for Pet Safety Certified harnesses and carriers.

Free Guide Available

Drivers interested in downloading the Safe Travels With Your Pet guide can access it through Volvo Trucks North America’s website here.

The TDUSA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering trucking news, industry updates, safety, regulations, and career information for professional truck drivers across the United States. Each article is built to reflect real-world experience, industry developments, and information drivers can use on and off the road.

Last Updated: August 31, 2026

Source: The Trucker

Source: Volvo

The post Volvo Trucks Releases New Pet Safety Guide for Drivers Traveling with Animals appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Cab Design and Driver Environment

Freightliner designed the Cascadia with an emphasis on familiarity. The dashboard keeps controls within easy reach, gauges are easy to read at a glance, and the overall layout changes gradually between model years, allowing drivers to move between trucks with little adjustment. Large mirrors and a wide windshield also contribute to strong visibility during highway driving and while maneuvering around terminals or truck stops.

Volvo takes a different approach by shaping the cab around the driver’s seating position. The dashboard angles toward the seat, the steering wheel offers a wide range of adjustment, and the lower side windows improve visibility when turning or backing into loading docks. Those differences are subtle, but drivers spending weeks behind the wheel often notice the more driver-centered layout.

Sleeper Comfort and Living Space

Freightliner offers several sleeper configurations designed to maximize storage without adding unnecessary complexity. Cabinets, overhead compartments, under bunk storage, and durable interior materials reflect the truck’s focus on practicality and daily use across large fleet operations.

Volvo places greater emphasis on the living environment. The VNL incorporates additional sound insulation, flexible storage layouts, and sleeper designs intended to make extended time on the road more comfortable. Depending on the configuration, drivers may also find additional workspace and improved organization throughout the sleeper.

Both manufacturers provide enough interior space for regional and coast-to-coast operations, although the VNL generally places more emphasis on comfort while the Cascadia prioritizes function.

Engines and Powertrain

Freightliner gives buyers more flexibility by offering the Cascadia with Detroit DD13, DD15, DD16, and Cummins X15 engines. Most Detroit-powered models are paired with the DT12 automated manual transmission, allowing fleets to standardize around the powertrain that best matches their maintenance strategy or freight application.

Volvo centers the VNL around its proprietary D13 engine and I Shift automated manual transmission. Rather than offering multiple engine families, Volvo develops both components as a single integrated drivetrain, allowing the engine, transmission, and predictive shifting systems to communicate continuously while the truck is operating.

Both platforms provide horsepower and torque ratings capable of handling dry van, refrigerated, flatbed, tanker, and dedicated freight applications.

Fuel Efficiency Technology

Freightliner improves highway fuel economy through aerodynamic body panels, chassis fairings, predictive cruise control, idle reduction technologies, and Detroit’s integrated engine management systems. The truck’s aerodynamic profile has been refined over multiple generations to reduce drag while maintaining serviceability.

Volvo combines aerodynamic improvements with the I See predictive cruise system, which uses mapped terrain data to anticipate upcoming grades before the truck reaches them. By preparing the drivetrain in advance, the system can reduce unnecessary shifting and improve overall efficiency on rolling terrain.

Fuel economy differences between the two trucks often become smaller in real-world operation because vehicle speed, trailer specification, terrain, weather, payload, idle time, and driving habits have a greater influence on fuel consumption than the manufacturer alone.

Safety and Driver Assistance

Freightliner equips the Cascadia with Detroit Assurance, a suite of driver assistance technologies that can include adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warnings, collision mitigation, and electronic stability control depending on the model year and equipment package.

Volvo offers a comparable collection of active safety technologies throughout the VNL lineup, including collision warning systems, adaptive cruise control, lane support features, and electronic stability systems. Equipment varies by specification, making it important to compare individual trucks instead of assuming every model includes the same features.

Ride Quality

The Cascadia delivers a stable ride that many fleet drivers describe as predictable during long interstate runs. Steering response remains consistent, suspension tuning balances comfort with durability, and the truck performs well across a wide variety of freight applications.

The Volvo VNL has developed a reputation for placing additional emphasis on reducing driver fatigue. Cab suspension, seat ergonomics, steering adjustments, and interior noise reduction all contribute to a quieter driving experience that many operators notice during extended trips.

Neither truck sacrifices highway performance, but the VNL tends to receive more recognition for overall ride comfort while the Cascadia is often praised for its straightforward driving characteristics.

Maintenance and Service Support

Freightliner maintains one of the largest heavy-duty dealer and service networks in North America, giving fleets broad access to replacement parts and qualified technicians throughout the United States and Canada. That network can reduce downtime for carriers operating nationwide.

Volvo also supports its trucks through an extensive dealer network while continuing to expand connected vehicle technologies that provide maintenance reminders, remote diagnostics, and vehicle health monitoring. Those systems help fleets identify developing issues before they become more significant repairs.

Routine maintenance schedules remain comparable between the two platforms, and long-term operating costs are influenced more by preventive maintenance, utilization, and operating conditions than by the manufacturer itself.

Comparing the Freightliner Cascadia and Volvo VNL

The Cascadia appeals to fleets and owner-operators looking for engine flexibility, practical interior design, and widespread service support across North America. The VNL distinguishes itself through an integrated drivetrain, refined interior, and features designed to improve comfort during extended periods behind the wheel. Comparing engine configuration, sleeper layout, safety equipment, and intended application provides a clearer picture than focusing on the truck name alone because both platforms offer multiple specifications that can change the ownership experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which truck is more common in North American fleets?

The Freightliner Cascadia is widely considered the most common Class 8 highway tractor in North America, although the Volvo VNL is also heavily used by national and regional carriers.

Does the Freightliner Cascadia offer more engine choices than the Volvo VNL?

Yes. The Cascadia is available with multiple Detroit engines as well as the Cummins X15, while the Volvo VNL is primarily built around the Volvo D13 engine and I Shift transmission.

Is the Volvo VNL known for ride comfort?

Many drivers recognize the Volvo VNL for its emphasis on cab ergonomics, seat design, suspension, and interior noise reduction, making it a popular choice for long haul operations.

Which truck has the larger dealer network?

Freightliner operates one of the largest heavy-duty truck dealer networks in North America. Volvo also maintains extensive dealer coverage throughout the United States and Canada.

Should owner-operators compare model years as well as truck models?

Yes. Engine options, safety technology, sleeper layouts, transmissions, and available features can vary significantly by model year, making it important to compare the specific truck rather than relying only on the model name.

The TDUSA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering trucking news, industry updates, safety, regulations, and career information for professional truck drivers across the United States. Each article is built to reflect real-world experience, industry developments, and information drivers can use on and off the road.

Last Updated: July 30, 2026

The post Freightliner Cascadia vs. Volvo VNL: Comparing Two of America’s Most Popular Highway Trucks appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The update is notable for the simulation community because the VNR Electric is the first battery-electric truck added to the game. The VNL, Volvo’s flagship long-haul tractor, also joins the game as part of the update from SCS Software.

American Truck Simulator allows players to haul freight, purchase equipment, manage expenses, and build a virtual trucking business across U.S. routes. According to Volvo, the game has sold more than seven million copies worldwide.

“This is a very exciting way to introduce our trucks, both the diesel and the battery-electric version, to millions of truck enthusiasts around the world,” said Peter Voorhoeve, president of Volvo Trucks North America. “American Truck Simulator has built an incredibly passionate community that appreciates great trucks and authentic driving experiences.”

Volvo said the in-game VNL was developed with input from its design and engineering teams so the truck’s appearance, sound and driver environment would reflect the production model.

“As designers, we obsess over every detail of the driver experience, from the way the truck looks and feels to the sounds drivers hear every day on the road,” said Brian Balicki, head of design for Volvo Trucks North America. “Together with the SCS Software team, we translated that experience into the virtual world with an exceptional level of authenticity.”

The addition of the VNR Electric also gives players a look at a truck designed for regional haul and urban freight operations. Volvo introduced the VNR Electric in the U.S. and Canada in 2020. The company said more than 750 units are now operating across the region, with more than 30 million miles logged.

The Volvo VNL and Volvo VNR Electric are available now through a free American Truck Simulator update here.

The TDUSA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering trucking news, industry updates, safety, regulations, and career information for professional truck drivers across the United States. Each article is built to reflect real-world experience, industry developments, and information drivers can use on and off the road.

Last Updated: July 13, 2026

Source: The Trucker

Image Source: Volvo

The post Volvo VNL and VNR Electric Added to American Truck Simulator appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The recall affects approximately 644 Mack trucks and 155 Volvo trucks.

According to recall information, the affected vehicles may have an issue related to wheel and hub mating surfaces. Because of the potential for wheel separation, affected trucks should not be driven until they have been inspected and repaired.

The recall includes the following models:

• 2026 Mack Anthem
• 2026-2027 Mack Pinnacle
• 2026-2027 Mack Pioneer
• 2026-2027 Mack Granite
• 2027 Mack Anthem
• 2026 Volvo VAH
• 2026-2027 Volvo VNL
• 2026-2027 Volvo VN
• 2026-2027 Volvo VHD
• 2027 Volvo VNR

To address the issue, dealers will inspect the wheel and hub mating surfaces, remove any masking material, and replace worn components if necessary. Repairs will be performed at no cost to owners.

Owner notification letters were expected to be mailed beginning June 5.

The Truck Drivers USA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering industry topics, job trends, and real-world decisions that impact drivers at every stage of their careers. Each article is written to provide clear, accurate information that drivers can use.

Last updated: June 19, 2026

Source: Truckers News

The post Mack And Volvo Recall Nearly 800 Trucks Over Wheel Separation Risk appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Despite serving many of the same applications, these trucks have developed very different identities within the industry.

The Cascadia has become one of the most common fleet trucks on the road, while the VNL has built a reputation around driver comfort and ergonomics. Those differences often influence how drivers evaluate each truck and explain why the comparison remains one of the most discussed in trucking.

Why These Trucks Are Compared So Often

The Freightliner Cascadia and Volvo VNL compete directly in one of the largest segments of the trucking industry.

Many fleets evaluate both trucks when purchasing equipment. Drivers who frequently change companies move from one model to the other. Owner-operators also compare them when looking for a truck capable of handling highway freight while providing a comfortable work environment.

Unlike comparisons between trucks designed for different jobs, the Cascadia and VNL often compete for the same routes, freight, and drivers. That direct competition is what keeps the comparison relevant year after year.

Why The Freightliner Cascadia Became So Popular

Few trucks have achieved the level of fleet adoption seen by the Freightliner Cascadia. One reason is availability. Freightliner maintains one of the largest dealer and service networks in North America, making support easier for fleets operating across multiple states.

The Cascadia also became known for providing a consistent driving experience. Drivers moving between fleet trucks often find the layout familiar, which can reduce the adjustment period when switching equipment.

As a result, many drivers spend at least part of their careers operating a Cascadia, even if it is not their preferred truck.

That widespread adoption helped establish Cascadia as one of the industry’s benchmark highway tractors.

Why The Volvo VNL Built a Loyal Following

The Volvo VNL followed a different path. Rather than becoming known primarily through fleet volume, the VNL gained attention for the driver experience.

Volvo has long emphasized ergonomics and workspace design. Drivers frequently mention the seating position, steering wheel adjustment range, and overall cab environment when discussing the truck.

Because drivers spend thousands of hours behind the wheel each year, comfort can become a major factor in long-term satisfaction.

That emphasis on the driver experience helped the VNL develop a loyal following throughout the industry.

How The Driving Position Compares

One of the first differences many drivers notice involves the seating position. The Cascadia offers a familiar and straightforward driving environment. Most controls are positioned for easy access, and drivers transitioning from other fleet trucks often adapt quickly.

The Volvo VNL takes a more ergonomic approach. The seating position, dashboard design, and steering wheel adjustments are intended to help reduce fatigue during long workdays.

While both trucks provide comfortable driving environments, drivers often have strong opinions about which seating position feels more natural after extended time on the road.

Visibility Differences Between the Cascadia and VNL

Visibility affects nearly every aspect of truck operation. Backing into docks, navigating traffic, changing lanes, and maneuvering through customer locations all depend on what a driver can see from the cab.

Both trucks provide strong visibility compared to older truck designs, but the Volvo VNL is often praised for its sightlines and driver’s field of view.

Drivers switching between the two models frequently mention visibility as one of the most noticeable differences during the first few weeks behind the wheel.

For many drivers, confidence in traffic starts with visibility, making this one of the most important comparison points.

How the Interior Design Philosophy Differs

The Cascadia and VNL approach interior design differently. Freightliner focuses heavily on practicality and ease of use. Controls are organized in a way that many drivers find familiar, particularly those with fleet driving experience.

Volvo places greater emphasis on creating a driver-centered workspace. Storage locations, dashboard layout, and control placement are designed around how drivers interact with the truck throughout the day. Neither approach is inherently better.

The preference often comes down to whether a driver values familiarity and simplicity or a workspace designed around ergonomic principles.

How Sleeper Areas Compare for Long Haul Drivers

Long-haul drivers spend enough time in a truck that sleeper design becomes an important consideration. Storage accessibility, organization, and day-to-day usability can influence how comfortable life on the road feels over time.

The Cascadia has proven itself in long-haul operations through widespread adoption and years of use across major fleets. The Volvo VNL often earns praise from drivers who prioritize comfort during extended trips.

Because the truck serves as both a workplace and a temporary living space, long-haul drivers often evaluate sleeper functionality differently than regional drivers.

How Technology Shapes the Driver Experience

Technology now plays a larger role in truck design than it did a decade ago. Both the Cascadia and VNL offer advanced safety systems, driver-assistance technology, digital displays, and telematics capabilities depending on model year and specification.

The difference is often not the technology itself but how drivers interact with it. The Cascadia generally emphasizes straightforward operation and familiarity. Volvo tends to focus on integrating technology into the overall driving environment. Both approaches can be effective, but drivers often prefer one style over the other.

What Owner Operators Often Consider

Owner-operators frequently evaluate trucks differently from fleets. A fleet may focus on standardization, maintenance planning, and operating costs across hundreds of trucks.

Owner-operators often place greater emphasis on comfort, daily satisfaction, and how the truck fits their personal style of operation.

For that reason, owner-operator purchasing decisions are often influenced by factors that extend beyond specifications alone.

A truck that feels better after several years of ownership can become a better investment even if another truck offers similar capabilities.

Similarities That Keep the Competition Close

The Freightliner Cascadia and Volvo VNL remain close competitors because they share many strengths.

Both trucks:

• Support regional and long-haul freight operations
• Offer modern safety technology
• Provide multiple sleeper configurations
• Benefit from extensive service networks
• Continue receiving updates focused on efficiency and driver experience

If the trucks were dramatically different, the decision would be easier.

Instead, both have proven themselves capable of handling modern freight operations, leaving drivers and fleets to evaluate which approach best fits their needs.

How To Choose Between the Freightliner Cascadia and Volvo VNL

The best truck depends on the priorities of the driver and operation. Drivers who value familiarity, widespread fleet support, and a straightforward driving environment often appreciate the Freightliner Cascadia.

Drivers who prioritize ergonomics, visibility, and overall comfort frequently gravitate toward the Volvo VNL. Neither truck has established a clear advantage across every category.

That is why the comparison continues. Both models succeed because they meet the demands of modern trucking while approaching the driver experience in different ways.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the biggest difference between the Freightliner Cascadia and the Volvo VNL?

Many drivers point to ergonomics and driver comfort. The Cascadia is often associated with familiarity and practicality, while the VNL is frequently associated with comfort and workspace design.

Which truck is more common in large fleets?

The Freightliner Cascadia is one of the most widely used fleet trucks in North America.

Is the Volvo VNL known for driver comfort?

Yes. Driver comfort and ergonomics are among the qualities most commonly associated with the Volvo VNL.

Are both trucks used for long-haul freight?

Yes. Both models are widely used in long-haul and regional freight operations.

Do both trucks offer advanced safety technology?

Yes. Both trucks can be equipped with modern safety and driver-assistance systems, depending on specification and model year.

Which truck is better for drivers?

The answer depends on personal preference. Some drivers prefer the familiarity of the Cascadia, while others prefer the ergonomics and comfort of the Volvo VNL.

The Truck Drivers USA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering industry topics, job trends, and real-world decisions that impact drivers at every stage of their careers. Each article is written to provide clear, accurate information that drivers can use.

Last updated: June 12, 2026

The post Freightliner Cascadia Vs Volvo VNL: Full Comparison Guide for Truck Drivers appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

In a first for the heavy-duty truck segment, Volvo partnered with the Center for Pet Safety to evaluate its new long-haul Volvo VNL for in-cab pet travel. The result was a successful pass in a formal pet safety evaluation conducted earlier this month.

Why Pet Safety Matters in Long Haul Trucking

Volvo estimates that roughly 800,000 pets travel in commercial trucks across the United States. For drivers, pets are not accessories. They are companions and family. That makes secure travel and reduced distraction a real safety issue, not a lifestyle feature.

“To my knowledge, our Volvo VNL is the first heavy-duty truck ever to pass a pet safety test,” said Maddie Sullivan, product manager, Volvo Trucks North America. “Safety is in our DNA at Volvo, and that commitment extends to everyone who shares the road, including the pets that so many drivers consider family.”

Inside the Volvo VNL Pet Safety Evaluation

The evaluation took place on December 12 at the Volvo Customer Center in Dublin, Virginia. Specialists from the Center for Pet Safety conducted a hands-on assessment of the Volvo VNL cab design, focusing on how pets can be restrained and transported safely during real-world driving.

The review included inspection of interior layouts, strength-tested anchor points, available restraint connection options, and cab climate control. Dogs also rode along on the Volvo Customer Center test track using Center for Pet Safety-approved harnesses and carriers. This allowed evaluators to observe pet positioning, movement, and comfort under normal driving conditions.

“Evaluating the Volvo VNL in person allows us to examine how vehicle design, securement points, and cab layout all work together to impact pet safety,” said Lindsey Wolko, founder and CEO of the Center for Pet Safety. “By working directly with Volvo’s engineers and product teams, we can evaluate real-world cab features, identify the safest places for pets to ride, and help drivers make choices that keep pets secure while reducing distractions, especially during busy holiday travel.”

What Helped the Volvo VNL Pass the Test

According to Volvo, several built-in features contributed to the successful evaluation. The VNL includes strength-tested anchor points that are compatible with Center for Pet Safety-certified harnesses and carriers. These anchor points help keep pets restrained during sudden stops or evasive maneuvers.

The truck also features the Volvo Parking Cooler, a climate control system designed to maintain safe interior temperatures for up to eight hours without idling. This is especially important for drivers traveling with pets during temperature extremes.

In addition, Volvo noted that the VNL’s strength-tested mesh bed design showed strong potential as a safe rest area for pets, with only minor adjustments needed to support secure travel.

“The Volvo VNL was designed to support life on the road, and working directly with the Center for Pet Safety helps us better understand how our design choices can support safer, more comfortable travel for drivers and their furry co-pilots,” Sullivan said.

Practical Takeaways for Drivers and Carriers

While the evaluation focused on one specific truck model, the findings highlight broader lessons for the industry. Proper restraint systems matter. Anchor points and certified harnesses reduce risk for both pets and drivers. Climate control is critical for safety, not just comfort. Cab layout and secure rest areas can help minimize distraction during long hours behind the wheel.

For fleets, the evaluation reinforces how in-cab design can support driver wellbeing and focus. For owner operators, it provides reassurance that pet travel can be done responsibly with the right equipment and planning.

Holiday Travel and Pet Safety on the Road

As part of the event, the Center for Pet Safety also shared seasonal reminders for drivers traveling with pets during the winter months. These included securing pets properly, packing essentials, planning rest stops, and preparing for cold weather conditions.

The guidance aligns with the Center’s ongoing mission to improve safety for families and pets traveling year-round.

For drivers who rely on a four-legged copilot to make the road feel like home, the Volvo VNL evaluation marks a meaningful step forward in acknowledging that reality and designing trucks that support it safely.

Source: The Trucker

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“For many long-haul drivers, their dog is their constant companion through every mile,” said Maddie Sullivan, product marketing manager, Volvo Trucks North America. “Safety is in our DNA, and that extends to everyone on the road, whether they have two legs or four. We’re proud to partner with the Center for Pet Safety to understand better how drivers travel with their pets and to share practical guidance that supports their comfort and safety.”

According to Volvo, more than 60 percent of truck drivers have pets, and nearly 40 percent bring them on the road. For these drivers, animals provide more than companionship. They get a sense of home in life on the highway.

“For many professional drivers, traveling with a pet is part of the lifestyle, offering comfort, companionship, and a sense of home on every route,” Volvo said. “This new collaboration aims to help drivers make informed choices to keep their pets safe and relaxed while on the road.”

Testing the New Volvo VNL for Pet Safety

As part of this partnership, specialists from the Center for Pet Safety are visiting the Volvo Customer Center in Dublin, Virginia, to review the new Volvo VNL. The team will explore how the truck’s design, comfort, and safety systems support both drivers and pets.

One major focus is the Volvo Parking Cooler and the systems that regulate in-cab temperature. For drivers who travel with animals, these details matter. Through Volvo’s connected app, drivers can monitor and adjust cab conditions remotely. That means pets stay safe and comfortable during breaks, no matter what the weather brings.

“We’re excited to collaborate with Volvo Trucks North America to spotlight the unique needs of commercial drivers traveling with their pets,” said Lindsey Wolko, founder and chief executive officer of the Center for Pet Safety. “By combining Volvo’s engineering leadership with our rigorous safety standards, this partnership will deliver practical guidance, product recommendations, and travel resources tailored for the long-haul driving community.”

A New Online Guide for Drivers Traveling with Pets

Volvo Trucks and the Center for Pet Safety are developing a digital guide that will launch in early 2026. It will include detailed advice for drivers who travel with pets, covering safe restraint options, wellness tips, and a directory of pet-friendly rest areas across the country.

For truck drivers, pets often make the road feel more like home. This partnership between Volvo Trucks and the Center for Pet Safety shows how much the industry values both driver and companion. Each new safety step helps ensure that every journey is safer, calmer, and more connected for the people and pets who keep America moving.

Image Source: Volvo

Other Source:  The Trucker

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Pushing Boundaries in Extreme Cold
To guarantee that the next-generation VNL truck meets the highest standards of performance, reliability, and driver comfort, Volvo’s testing team braved some of the most severe winter conditions on the planet.

“Alaska is one of the harshest places on Earth to operate a truck, and that is exactly why we are here,” explained Peter Voorhoeve, president of Volvo Trucks North America. “We test in extreme environments so when our customers face unpredictable conditions, they can count on their Volvo to perform.”

Testing Beyond the Lab Walls
Every year, Volvo’s cold weather testing team embarks on a demanding journey spanning more than 3,000 miles from Colorado up to Alaska. This extended field test lasts several months and covers a variety of driving conditions, mimicking the real-world challenges truck drivers face daily.

From long-distance highway stretches to congested urban routes with frequent stops, the all-new VNL endures a comprehensive evaluation aimed at refining its capabilities. Experienced professional drivers—many with decades navigating Alaska’s toughest terrains—offer invaluable feedback, paired with real-time data collected by Volvo engineers. This combination allows fine-tuning of everything from engine response to in-cab ergonomics.

The Crucial ‘Cold Soak’ Test
One of the hallmark procedures in this validation process is the “cold soak.” Here, trucks are left outside overnight with engines off, allowing all components to reach Arctic-level subzero temperatures. After 12 hours in this frozen state, the expectation is that the truck will start effortlessly and operate as seamlessly as drivers would need in real, harsh conditions.

Voorhoeve emphasized the importance of this real-world testing approach: “The all-new VNL was designed to change everything and that includes how we approach testing and refinement in real-world conditions – to challenge our trucks and gain insights that would be impossible to replicate in a lab. What we learn in Alaska helps us deliver a truck that is not only innovative but proven where it matters most: on the road, in the real world, and in the hands of our customers.”

Built for North America’s Diverse Environments
According to Volvo’s official press release, the VNL was purpose-built for the wide-ranging North American landscape. Its design draws inspiration from five distinct biomes: urban centers, deserts, prairies, coastal forests, and the Arctic tundra. This ensures the truck is well-equipped for demanding coast-to-coast operations, capable of handling up to 3,000 miles across diverse climate zones.

Image Source: Volvo
Source: The Trucker

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“When most people hear design, they think of automotive or fashion, not heavy-duty trucks. However, for our team, design plays a critical role in everything from fuel efficiency to driver comfort,” shared Brian Balicki, head of design at Volvo Trucks North America. “With the all-new Volvo VNL, we started with a blank sheet of paper and reimagined the truck from the ground up. The streamlined, wedge-shaped cab and dramatically sloped windshield are not just visually striking, they reduce aerodynamic drag and help deliver up to 10% better fuel efficiency compared to the legacy model. Inside, we transformed the driving environment and sleeper into a space that feels more like a home away from home.”

Cutting-edge redesign and features

Revealed in January 2024, the all-new Volvo VNL represents six years of intensive research and represents a complete rethinking of the long-haul truck. With a nearly 90% redesign from its predecessors, the truck offers enhanced productivity, safety, profitability, and sustainability, addressing the demands of the North American freight transport sector.

The Volvo VNL is visually distinguished by its dynamic lines, aerodynamic efficiency, and innovative wedge-shaped profile. Its curved windshield reduces drag, while the angled front grille, headlights, and intakes enhance both form and function. Volvo described this design as “a significant industry shift” that exemplifies its brand strengths.

Inside the cabin, driver-focused features fuel innovation. An all-new 24-volt electrical system hosts technologies like dynamic displays, a Camera Monitor System, inductive charging, and task/ambient lighting. Comfort is redefined with customizable cab configurations, upgraded materials, and amenities like versatile bunk setups and airline-inspired window shades designed to meet drivers’ needs.

Revolutionizing the driver experience

“The all-new Volvo VNL was designed to change everything for heavy-duty trucks, and we evaluated every detail of the driver experience from selecting materials that provide a premium look and feel to incorporating innovative safety features that help protect drivers in case of an accident,” remarked Peter Voorhoeve, president of Volvo Trucks North America. “Winning this prestigious design award validates the six years of dedication that went into transforming our flagship VNL model. We created a vehicle that not only connects with customers but also delivers exceptional performance and comfort.”

The design innovations are aimed at creating a driver experience that reflects their needs on the road, earning praise from drivers and the broader trucking industry along the way.

About the Red Dot Award

The Red Dot Design Award is a globally celebrated mark of recognition, honoring exceptional design across industries. Originating in Essen, Germany over 70 years ago, it spans 51 categories, including vehicles, electronics, household goods, and more. Winning the Red Dot Award reflects not only design excellence but also innovation and functionality.

The official award announcement will occur on July 8 at the Designers’ Night hosted at the Red Dot Design Museum in Essen.

Volvo Trucks continues to push industry boundaries, setting a new standard for functionality, comfort, and design with the Volvo VNL.

Source: The Trucker
Source: Volvo Trucks

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