Volvo will now offer technology packages on new VNL trucks. The company previously announced it will offer trim levels on the new model; the tech packages will innovate the spec'ing process further, Volvo says, offering savings and driver convenience.
"The all-new Volvo VNL is the most driver-centric truck ever built for North America," says Johan Agebrand, director of product marketing for Volvo Trucks North America. "When we began working on our packaging strategy, we focused on building the Technology Packages to enhance the overall driver experience and help fleets attract and retain today's drivers, who desire a modern, connected truck loaded with advanced features and thoughtful design. From veteran drivers to the next generation of future drivers, the Technology Packaging with the all-new Volvo VNL offers tailored options to elevate the customer experience."
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The VNL comes in four exterior and interior trim levels β Core, Edge, Edge Black and Ultimate β across six cab configurations. Each interior trim package allows the technology package to be upgraded or downgraded one level from the pre-selected option.
Volvo's technology packages include a radio package offers a range of listening options, Volvo says, with Sirius XM 360L with over-the-air connectivity β an industry first. Sirius XM is complimentary for the first three months with the standard technology package. Customers who opt for the upgraded technology packages get access to Sirius XM 360L on the optional 9-inch Volvo infotainment system. A premium radio package includes additional speakers, an amplifier and subwoofer to provide higher audio clarity. It also offers cell phone integration for seamless access to navigation, messaging and music apps.
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Both the navigation and navigation-plus packages are available as part of the VNL's infotainment system. The standard navigation system provides essential route planning, including easy-to-read, turn-by-turn directions displayed on the screen. An upgraded navigation-plus system offers more tools for long-haul trucking, including real-time traffic updates and enhanced route optimization for truck-specific restrictions.
Volvo's VNL offers an optional push-button ignition, and trucks equipped with the button can be started remotely with a key fob. Drivers can start warming or cooling the cab and activate external lighting with the fob as well. The Volvo Parking Cooler is an integrated climate-control option that can also be activated from the fob. The truck also has electric windows with auto up and auto down feature on both doors.
Another option is the wireless charging pad in the doghouse, providing a way for drivers to keep cell phones charged without cords or adapters. Wireless charging is also available in the sleeper for medium and large sleepers.
Intelligent lighting includes automatic headlight activation, automatic high beams and cornering lamps that provide additional lighting when entering and exiting turns or curves at low speeds. Rain-sensing windshield wipers activate automatically when rain is detected. A tire pressure and temperature sensor shows the information, updated every 10 seconds, in the DID or on the infotainment display.
The Core trim level includes the standard technology package. The Edge trim includes package No. 1, and Edge Black and Ultimate levels feature package No. 2. The packages build on one another, Volvo says, allowing an efficient way to select features to enhance driver comfort and productivity.