Volvo Trucks completes rollout of ‘lock and leave’ software update system

Volvo Trucks has completed the North American rollout of a software update system called "lock and leave." This feature enables drivers to initiate updates from their trucks and depart while the software installs, allowing updates to occur during breaks or scheduled downtime instead of necessitating a visit to a service center. The system is now accessible across the United States and Canada.

Drivers can initiate an update during a break or overnight parking and leave the truck while the software installs, Volvo reported. Peter Voorhoeve, president of Volvo Trucks North America, stated that as software enhances uptime, updating it should be as straightforward and convenient as possible. The rollout builds upon Volvo's existing Remote Programming system, which was expanded in 2018 to allow eligible North American trucks with factory-installed connectivity hardware to receive software and parameter updates remotely via a cellular connection.

Volvo further expanded the system in 2023 to incorporate six programmable vehicle modules, with over 40,000 software updates completed through the system as of that time. The connected services in Volvo's newer trucks, such as the VNL introduced in 2024, have become increasingly significant, enabling over-the-air software updates and remote diagnostics.

As of March, more than 80% of Volvo's connected North American trucks were running the latest software, resulting in a 24% reduction in unplanned stops among these trucks. The company reported over 7,500 updates completed in August, with its connected systems capable of dispatching up to 20,000 software updates per day. The software can update various systems, including engine performance, transmission, and battery management.

For fleets, the primary advantage is minimizing the time a truck must be taken out of service for software updates. Drivers can commence an update during a scheduled break or overnight stop and depart while it installs, eliminating the need for an additional service stop. As more truck systems depend on software, remote updates could also diminish the requirement for routine visits to a dealership for software-related tasks.