Four trucks were included in the selection: the FH Aero Electric with extended range and the next-generation FH, FM and FMX Electric. The FH Aero Electric is rated for up to 435 miles on a charge, while the other three models are rated for up to 290 miles.

Longer Range Comes with the Latest Generation

The International Truck of the Year jury pointed to the increased range as well as the number of cab, chassis and application configurations available across the lineup. Volvo has developed the trucks for work that includes regional and long-haul routes, city distribution, construction and utility operations.

Along with the range improvements, the latest generation has increased payload capacity and shorter charging times compared with the previous models.

The award also continues a four-year run for battery-electric trucks. Volvo’s FH Electric won for 2024, followed by the Mercedes-Benz eActros 600 in 2025 and the DAF XD and XF Electric in 2026. Volvo accepted the 2027 award during IAA Transportation in Hanover, Germany.

Volvo’s Electric Program Is Already Operating in North America

The trucks receiving this year’s award are part of Volvo’s global lineup, but the company’s electric program also extends to equipment operating in the United States and Canada.

More than 750 Volvo VNR Electric trucks have entered service in North America since the model’s 2020 launch, logging nearly 37 million miles without tailpipe emissions. Volvo is also preparing the VNL Electric for the North American market after previewing the model in May. It is intended for regional haul, drayage, and city distribution applications.

Globally, Volvo says more than 7,000 of its electric trucks have traveled approximately 310 million miles since 2019. Nearly 2,000 customers in more than 50 countries currently operate the company’s battery-electric trucks.

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 22, 2026

Source: ACT News

The post Volvo Heavy-Duty Electric Trucks Named International Truck of the Year 2027 appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

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.

Volvo Trucks North America and the nonprofit Center for Pet Safety have released a free Safe Travels With Your Pet guide covering restraints, emergency preparation, temperature concerns, and other situations drivers can encounter while traveling with a pet.

An estimated 800,000 pets travel in commercial trucks across the United States, according to Volvo. The company also reports that more than 60% of commercial truck drivers own a pet, with nearly 40% of those drivers bringing their pet on the road.

Restraints Are a Major Focus

One of the guide’s primary recommendations is keeping pets properly restrained whenever the truck is moving.

Rather than relying on a product simply marketed for vehicle use, the guide addresses selecting and properly using crash-tested harnesses and carriers. The Center for Pet Safety independently tests and certifies harnesses, carriers, and travel crates against its safety standards.

The guide also covers where restraints should be positioned and how drivers can set up the cab to reduce risks from sudden braking or a crash.

Preparing for Weather and Emergencies

Pet safety away from home involves more than securing an animal while the truck is moving. The new resource includes information about hot and cold weather, overnight stops, and preparing for unexpected situations.

Drivers can also find recommendations for assembling a pet first-aid kit, planning for emergencies, and handling hotel stays. Seasonal considerations are included for drivers traveling through changing climates during a run.

The complete Safe Travels With Your Pet guide is available to download for free.

Volvo VNL Put Through Pet Safety Evaluation

The guide follows an evaluation conducted by Volvo and the Center for Pet Safety at the Volvo Customer Center in Dublin, Virginia, in December 2025.

During the evaluation, Center for Pet Safety experts examined the Volvo VNL’s interior layout, restraint options, strength-tested anchor points, and climate-control features. Dogs secured with approved harnesses and carriers were also taken onto the facility’s test track so the organization could observe the setups under actual driving conditions.

The evaluation found that the VNL’s strength-tested anchor points are compatible with Center for Pet Safety Certified harnesses and carriers.

The work continued into 2026 with the development of the new digital guide, extending the project beyond one truck model and providing pet travel information that drivers can use regardless of the truck they operate.

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 15, 2026

Source: Truckers News

Source: Volvo Trucks North America

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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

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Owners of affected vehicles will be notified by mail beginning in October, and all repairs will be completed at no cost through authorized dealerships.

Volvo Recalls More Than 1,800 Trucks

Volvo Trucks North America is recalling 1,851 model-year 2027 VNL and VNR trucks because the center roof marker lights may fail to illuminate.

According to NHTSA, the issue means the affected trucks may not comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 108, which establishes requirements for vehicle lighting and reflective equipment. Marker lights help improve a commercial vehicle’s visibility to other motorists, particularly during nighttime and low-light conditions.

Volvo dealers will replace the center roof marker light assembly free of charge.

Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed on October 5, 2026. Drivers or fleet owners with questions can contact Volvo Trucks customer service at 800-528-6586 and reference recall number RVXX2608. Affected Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) can also be searched through NHTSA’s online recall database.

Mack Issues Similar Recall for Anthem and Pioneer Models

Mack Trucks has announced a similar recall covering 513 model-year 2027 Anthem AN and Pioneer PR trucks.

Like the Volvo recall, the center roof marker lights may fail to illuminate, creating a potential noncompliance with FMVSS No. 108.

Dealers will replace the affected marker light assembly at no charge, and owner notification letters are also expected to be mailed on October 5, 2026.

Owners can contact Mack customer service at 800-866-1177 and reference recall number SC0498. VINs included in the recall can be verified through NHTSA.

International Recalls Trucks Over Windshield Wiper Issue

International Motors is recalling 49 model-year 2027 HV, HX, LT, MV, and RH trucks because a retaining nut within the windshield wiper assembly may loosen over time.

If the retaining nut loosens, both windshield wipers can disconnect from the motor, reducing visibility during rain or other adverse weather conditions.

To correct the issue, dealers will tighten the wiper motor drive nut along with three motor mounting bolts at no cost to vehicle owners.

Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed on October 5, 2026. International customers can contact the manufacturer’s customer service department at 331-332-5000 and reference recall number 26513.

How Drivers Can Check if Their Truck Is Included

Drivers and fleet managers can determine whether a specific vehicle is included in any active recall by entering the truck’s VIN into NHTSA’s online recall lookup tool. Even if a truck appears to be operating normally, manufacturers recommend having recall repairs completed as soon as parts and dealer appointments become available.

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 20, 2026

Source: The Trucker

The post NHTSA Announces Commercial Truck Recalls Affecting Volvo, Mack and International Models appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The announcements follow similar updates from other major truck manufacturers and come as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) considers changes to federal emissions regulations affecting newly manufactured heavy-duty trucks.

Software Updates Extend Repair Window

According to Volvo Trucks and Mack Trucks, the updated software delays DEF-related engine derates and vehicle speed restrictions, allowing drivers additional time to reach a repair facility when emissions system issues occur.

The companies said the updates are intended to reduce unplanned downtime while maintaining emissions compliance and improving operational flexibility for fleets.

“By extending the repair window and increasing the final inducement speed, we are helping drivers keep their trucks on the road and safely reach a service location, reducing the risk of unexpected downtime and supporting the uptime and productivity our customers depend on every day,” said Peter Voorhoeve, president of Volvo Trucks North America.

Rollout Underway Across Multiple Models

Volvo said it has been producing trucks equipped with the updated software since May 2026 on vehicles powered by its D13 VGT and D13TC engines. Many recently manufactured trucks have already received the update through remote software downloads.

Mack has also begun installing the software on new Anthem and Pioneer models equipped with MP13 engines. The company expects the update to be available for all 2024 and newer Mack trucks by the end of the summer, with plans to extend the software to all eligible post-2010 models by the end of 2027.

Jonathan Randall, president of Mack Trucks North America, said the company remains focused on providing customers with solutions that support both regulatory compliance and day-to-day operations.

Industry Responds to Proposed EPA Rule Changes

Volvo Group’s announcement follows similar software updates introduced by Daimler Truck North America and Paccar as truck manufacturers respond to the EPA’s proposed emissions rule.

In June, the EPA proposed eliminating DEF-related engine derates and vehicle speed restrictions on newly manufactured heavy-duty trucks while maintaining emissions standards. If finalized, the proposal would change how manufacturers manage emissions system faults on future vehicles.

For fleets operating existing trucks, manufacturers say the new software is intended to reduce disruptions by allowing more time to schedule repairs before performance limitations are activated.

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 17, 2026

Source: Trucking Dive

Image Source: Mack Trucks

The post Volvo, Mack Expand DEF Software Updates for Heavy-Duty Trucks appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Although manufacturers operate additional facilities for engines, components, and specialty vehicles, the following plants are among the largest and most important final assembly locations for Class 8 trucks in North America.

Cleveland, North Carolina

Freightliner’s Cleveland Truck Manufacturing Plant has become one of the busiest heavy-duty truck assembly facilities in North America. Operated by Daimler Truck North America, the plant is best known for building the Freightliner Cascadia, a model that has led the North American Class 8 market for years.

The facility has expanded multiple times since opening, reflecting continued demand for Freightliner highway tractors. In addition to final assembly, Cleveland serves as a key production center within Daimler’s broader North American manufacturing network.

Dublin, Virginia

Volvo Trucks builds nearly all of its North American highway models at the New River Valley Plant in Dublin, Virginia.

The plant opened in 1975 and has grown into Volvo’s largest truck manufacturing facility worldwide. Today it assembles the VNL, VNR, VNX, and VHD while incorporating advanced robotics, automated material handling systems, and modern quality control processes throughout production.

Denton, Texas

Peterbilt’s Denton manufacturing plant has been the company’s primary assembly location since the early 1980s.

The facility produces both highway and vocational trucks, including the Model 579, one of Peterbilt’s best-known long-haul tractors. Denton also houses engineering, testing, and administrative operations, making it one of the company’s most important campuses.

Chillicothe, Ohio

Kenworth’s Chillicothe Assembly Plant remains one of PACCAR’s largest truck manufacturing facilities.

The plant assembles a range of on-highway and vocational models while using robotic welding systems, automated paint operations, and extensive inspection procedures. Continuous upgrades over the years have helped the facility keep pace with changing production demands and manufacturing technology.

Macungie, Pennsylvania

Mack Trucks has built commercial vehicles in Pennsylvania for generations, and its Lehigh Valley Operations facility in Macungie continues that tradition today.

The plant assembles the Anthem, Granite, Pinnacle, LR, MD, and TerraPro model lines for customers across North America. While Mack’s products have evolved considerably, the company’s long manufacturing history remains closely tied to Pennsylvania.

More Than an Assembly Line

A finished truck represents the work of far more than a single factory.

Before reaching final assembly, engines, transmissions, axles, wiring harnesses, braking systems, electronics, interiors, and other major components are produced at facilities throughout North America. Final assembly plants bring those components together before each truck undergoes inspection, testing, and quality verification.

Although the names on the hood differ, every manufacturer follows the same basic goal: producing trucks that can withstand hundreds of thousands of miles in demanding commercial service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are so many truck manufacturing plants located in the southern United States?

Many manufacturers expanded into the South because of available land, transportation access, established supplier networks, and a skilled manufacturing workforce. Proximity to major interstate highways and distribution routes also supports efficient delivery throughout North America.

Are heavy-duty trucks built only in the United States?

No. Heavy-duty truck manufacturing takes place in both the United States and Mexico. Modern production relies on facilities in both countries, with components moving across borders before final assembly.

Do manufacturers build every part of a semi truck themselves?

No. Most heavy-duty trucks contain components supplied by hundreds of specialized manufacturers. Assembly plants receive those parts before completing final assembly and inspection.

Which truck plant has been operating the longest?

Several facilities have decades of manufacturing history. Volvo’s New River Valley Plant opened in 1975, while Mack has maintained truck manufacturing operations in Pennsylvania for well over a century through various facilities.

How many trucks can a modern assembly plant build?

Production varies by manufacturer, staffing levels, demand, and model mix. Large heavy-duty truck plants are capable of producing hundreds of trucks during a typical production week.

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

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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 recalls, reported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, involve a wheel-related issue that could allow a wheel to separate from the truck if the problem is not corrected.

Volvo Trucks Included in Recall

Volvo Trucks is recalling certain 2026 VAH trucks, 2026-2027 VN, VHD, and VNL (4) models, along with certain 2027 VNR (4) trucks. According to the recall notice, wheel lug nuts may loosen, creating the possibility of wheel separation.

Volvo is advising owners not to operate affected vehicles until repairs have been completed.

Dealers will inspect wheel and hub mating surfaces, remove masking material, and replace worn components when necessary. Repairs will be performed free of charge. The recall is identified as RVXX2606. Volvo Trucks customer service can be reached at 800-528-6586.

Mack Trucks Also Affected

Mack issued a nearly identical recall involving certain 2026 Anthem (AN) trucks, 2026-2027 Pioneer PR (4), Pinnacle (PI/PN), and Granite (GR) models, along with certain 2027 Anthem AN (4) trucks.

The issue again involves wheel lug nuts that may loosen over time. Mack is also instructing owners not to drive affected trucks until repairs have been completed.

Dealers will inspect wheel and hub mating surfaces, remove masking material, and replace worn components if needed. The repairs will be completed at no charge. The Mack recall number is SC0495. Owners can contact Mack customer service at 1-800-866-1177.

Owners Can Check VINs Online

NHTSA said vehicle identification numbers tied to both recalls can be searched through the agency’s recall database. Drivers and fleet owners who operate affected Volvo or Mack models can verify whether a truck is included in the recall before scheduling repairs.

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 11, 2026

Source: The Trucker

The post Do Not Drive Warnings Issued for Certain Volvo and Mack Trucks appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

“Built on a completely new platform – 90 percent new compared with the legacy model – the Volvo VNR is purpose-built for navigating congested city streets, distribution centers, and urban routes where visibility, precision, and agility are critical,” said Peter Voorhoeve, president of Volvo Trucks North America. “We are excited to begin production and get these trucks into the hands of our customers.”

The first units rolled off the line in February 2026 and are slated for delivery to Clayton, a national single-family homebuilder. Orders for the new VNR opened six months after its March 2025 unveiling.

Made in the U.S., Supported by Skilled Workforce

The New River Valley Plant, where all North American Volvo trucks are assembled, is the company’s largest manufacturing site worldwide. Voorhoeve emphasized Volvo’s commitment to U.S. manufacturing, noting, “Volvo has built trucks for the U.S. and Canadian markets in Virginia for more than 40 years. The expansion supports the company’s growth plans in North America and its long-standing commitment to U.S. manufacturing and a skilled workforce.”

Volvo recently invested $400 million in upgrades at the plant, including a new 350,000-square-foot facility for cab welding and improved paint and material flow systems.

Fuel Efficiency and Safety Upgrades

The new Volvo VNR offers up to 7.5 percent better fuel economy than the previous model, thanks to improved aerodynamics, advanced powertrain features, and idle-shutdown systems. Volvo says this increase helps lower operating costs while supporting sustainability goals in regional and local delivery applications.

“The new Volvo VNR incorporates a comprehensive Volvo safety package, with advanced onboard technologies designed to support operation in dense urban traffic and pedestrian-heavy environments,” Volvo stated. “The truck offers better forward visibility than the previous model, enabled by a sloped hood design and a larger panoramic windshield. It also incorporates industry-first safety innovations, including integrated side curtain airbags, making it the safest regional truck ever produced by Volvo Trucks North America.”

Optimized for Urban and Regional Routes

The VNR’s tighter turning radius makes it ideal for city streets, distribution centers, and other confined areas. Its features include:

• Up to 7.5 percent improved fuel efficiency
• Volvo Active Safety Platform with Volvo Active Driver Assist Plus
• Camera Monitor System for enhanced visibility, including infrared tech for low-light conditions and digital reference lines for trailer positioning
• Multiple axle options, including Adaptive Loading, Electronically Controlled Suspension, and Global Rear Air Suspension
• Class 8 configurations: 4×2, 6×2, and 6×4 tractors, plus straight trucks with multiple body types
• Two trim levels: Core for practical durability, Edge for enhanced comfort and premium in-cab features
• 24-volt electrical architecture supporting advanced safety and connectivity
• Engine options: VGT engines from 405-455 HP with 1450-1850 lb-ft of torque, plus D13 Turbo Compound engines with waste heat recovery and two additional low-NOx ratings

“The start of production of the Volvo VNR follows the launch of Volvo Trucks’ all-new long-haul Volvo VNL,” Volvo said. “Together, the VNL and VNR reflect the company’s focus on application-specific trucks designed to improve efficiency, safety, and uptime across a range of fleet operations.”

For drivers navigating city routes and regional deliveries, the VNR promises better maneuverability, enhanced safety, and improved fuel efficiency—making it a strong choice for fleets focused on reliability and driver comfort.

Source: The Trucker

The post Volvo Trucks Begins Production of New Regional Hauler at Virginia Plant appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.