Mack Introduces Automated Software Updates for Truck Fleets
Mack Trucks is revolutionizing fleet maintenance and optimization with its latest automated over-the-air (OTA) software updates and self-service parameter changes through its Mack Connect service. With more than 200,000 connected Mack trucks on the road, the company is leveraging real-time data and automation to help fleet managers keep their operations running smoothly.
As Mack gears up for the April launch of its new flagship on-highway truck, the company announced AutoSend, a fully automated software deployment system that removes the hassle of manually tracking and updating trucks. Additionally, Mack is introducing Self-Service Parameter Updates, allowing fleet managers to remotely adjust vehicle settings like speed limits and idle shutdowns.
Making Over-the-Air Updates as Easy as a Smartphone Update
Much like how outdated smartphone software can cause performance issues, glitches, and security vulnerabilities, trucks with outdated software suffer from inefficiencies and unexpected breakdowns. Previously, Mack’s OTA updates required a call to the Mack Uptime Center, where an agent guided customers through the process. While effective, fleet managers found it difficult to track which trucks needed updates.
Enter AutoSend, a feature that automatically pushes software updates to eligible trucks without requiring manual oversight.
“The number one thing we heard from customers was, ‘This gets really complicated,'” said Nicole Portello, Mack’s Senior VP and Chief Digital Officer.
“Can you just make sure my trucks are updated?’ And that’s exactly what AutoSend does.”
How Mack’s AutoSend Updates Work
- A notification appears on the truck’s Driver Display Activation screen when an update is available.
- The driver simply approves the update, and the process completes within 30 minutes or less.
- If the driver is unable to update immediately, they can postpone it, with reminders appearing over the next 28 days until it is completed.
AutoSend will become standard for all Mack trucks with Mack engines and Driver Display Activation by the end of the first quarter of 2025, with an opt-out option available.
Updated trucks experience 22% less unplanned downtime, Portello noted, as many error codes are triggered by outdated software rather than actual faults.
Self-Service Parameter Updates for Fleet Managers
Starting in Q2 of 2025, Mack will roll out Self-Service Parameter Updates via the Mack Connect customer portal. This feature enables fleet managers to adjust critical truck settings remotely, eliminating the need to contact the Mack Uptime Center.
Fleet managers will be able to:
✅ Switch between mph and kph for cross-border operations.
✅ Adjust road speed limits for efficiency and safety.
✅ Modify settings for seasonal operations (e.g., winter fuel economy optimizations).
✅ Monitor unauthorized parameter changes, ensuring compliance with company policies.
This flexibility and control help fleets streamline operations, improve fuel efficiency, and enhance driver safety without taking trucks out of service.
“The future of fleet management lies in connected vehicle technology,” Portello said. “With AutoSend and Self-Service Parameter Updates, we’re giving customers unprecedented control over their vehicles’ performance.”
Mack’s Data-Driven Fleet Insights: AI-Powered Predictive Maintenance
Mack is using real-time data and AI-driven analytics from its 200,000+ connected trucks to provide fleet managers with actionable insights.
1️⃣ Predictive Maintenance:
- AI analyzes fault codes and vehicle patterns to anticipate failures before they happen.
- Optimized maintenance schedules reduce costs and prevent unexpected downtime.
2️⃣ Fleet Benchmarking:
- Mack compares fleet performance against similar fleets, identifying areas for improvement.
- Example: Trucks with different gear ratios and torque settings may have better fuel efficiency, offering fleets data-driven strategies to save fuel.
3️⃣ Custom Reports for Fleet Managers:
- Instead of manual data reviews, Mack provides specific, actionable insights tailored to each fleet’s needs.
- Example: A fleet can adjust driving habits, optimize vehicle configurations, or improve route planning based on data trends.
“Fleet managers used to have stacks of reports sitting on their desks,” said Randall from Mack.
“Now, Mack Connect pinpoints what matters most and delivers real-time actionable data.”
The Future of Fleet Automation with Mack
Mack’s AutoSend and Self-Service Parameter Updates represent a significant leap in fleet automation. By eliminating manual software tracking, enabling remote parameter control, and leveraging AI-driven insights, Mack is transforming fleet management into a seamless, data-driven operation.
With real-time updates, predictive maintenance, and enhanced fleet control, Mack is ensuring that trucking operations run more efficiently, with fewer disruptions and lower costs—all while making life easier for fleet managers and drivers alike.
Source:
https://www.truckinginfo.com/10236415/mack-automates-truck-software-updates-adds-parameter-power
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