VOLVO has combined its high-tech Volvo Link satellite communications system with its technical support resources to ensure superior customer support for Volvo VT 880 owners, wherever they are. The Volvo VT 880 is Volvo's flagship owner-operator truck and was introduced in February 2005.
Volvo Link Sentry monitors the VT 880's onboard computers to track vehicle fault codes. If a fault code is active for more than a predetermined amount of time (usually five minutes), Volvo Link Sentry sends a message with all the active fault codes to Volvo Action Service (VAS), Volvo's 24/7 roadside assistance service.
VAS' technical support experts will review the fault codes and determine what, if any, corrective action should be taken. VAS will then contact the driver, either by cell phone or through the Volvo Link communications display in the truck's gauge cluster. VAS will explain what the fault code means and actions the driver should take. VAS will assist the driver in scheduling service at a Volvo dealership.
Link Sentry hardware is included on the VT 880, and the VAS service is available at no charge for the 2006 Model Year Volvo VT 880. Other Volvo Link services are available to VT 880 owners for a reduced fee.
“Volvo Link Sentry gives VT 880 owners information they need to know and a plan for effective action,” said Scott Kress, senior vice-president of sales and marketing. “This, along with the Platinum Coverage support package announced in March, demonstrates the commitment Volvo has to the Volvo VT 880 owner's success. It is premium service for a premium product.”
Volvo Link is Volvo Trucks North America's proprietary satellite communications system, using a network of 30 low-Earth orbit satellites. Volvo Link hardware is integrated into the truck during assembly (Volvo Link is standard on the Volvo VT 880, and is optional for the Volvo VN and VHD. It can also be added as an aftermarket upgrade). Drivers send and receive messages using the integrated driver message center display in the vehicle's gauge cluster. Volvo Link messages transmitted from trucks are received by ground stations and are sent to VAS or fleet terminals via the Internet.