Volvo Trucks has developed a new GSM-based system that allows the workshop to check a truck’s condition remotely—a development that promises increased uptime and lower maintenance costs. The system is scheduled for release in Europe in 2013.
The new remote services are possible thanks to the latest version of in-truck Telematics Gateway (TGW). This allows the Volvo workshop to monitor the vehicle’s wear and condition and also read trouble codes remotely, using the GSM network.
The new system allows the workshop’s service technicians to check how much mileage the truck has covered and how quickly the various components are being worn out. After this, the workshop can plan the servicing according to the individual vehicle’s actual needs.
Remote communication between truck and workshop is a complement to the service schedule. If a truck is driven in a different way compared to the original plan, the service intervals may end up being too frequent or too far apart. When the workshop receives data about the actual wear rate, it can adjust service intervals to suit the truck’s actual needs.
With TGW it will be possible to have remote updates of parameters and, in the future, it will be possible to update entire software packages in the truck. Initially the system will encompass a limited number of parameters but within a few years, according to Gustavsson, Volvo Trucks will develop a far wider range of such facilities with the aim of improving haulage firm uptime and reducing operating costs.