SAVANNAH, Ga. – Volvo has taken steps to provide peace of mind for owners of new trucks equipped with 2007 engines by making Volvo Link Sentry and Volvo Action Service (VAS) standard features.

Volvo Link Sentry is a system that allows trucks to be remotely monitored for problems while the truck is in operation. Information is transmitted from the vehicle to Volvo’s technical support personnel on an ongoing basis.

Volvo Action Service is the company’s 24/7 roadside assistance service.

“These two programs demonstrate our confidence in Volvo’s new family of engines and show our determination to deliver a premium level of support to customers,” says Scott Kress, senior vice-president of sales and marketing with Volvo Trucks. “Volvo’s advanced communications technology and dedicated customer support team will back up our customers wherever they are, and at any time of day.”

The Volvo Link system uses a network of 30 low-orbit satellites to monitor each truck’s performance. Drivers can also use the system to send and receive messages and communicate with Volvo technical support personnel.

The Sentry function of Volvo Link monitors the truck’s fault codes and transmits the information to Volvo Action Service. VAS staff then review the fault codes and determine the next course of action.

When a problem that needs attention arises, VAS contacts the driver by cell phone or through the Volvo Link dashboard display with instructions. If necessary, VAS will help the driver schedule service at the nearest Volvo dealership.

“We’re putting the resources and expertise of our whole team behind these customers,” says Kress.

The Volvo Link Sentry system was first introduced on the company’s flagship VT 880.

Fleet managers can use the system to monitor how their trucks are being driven. It tracks information such as fuel usage, distance travelled, miles per gallon, time in and out of the RPM sweet spot, time in and out of cruise control and time above or below pre-set speeds.

The system can help fleet managers identify which drivers may require additional safety coaching, as it can also report events involving Volvo’s stability system and antilock brake engagements.

“This system combines early warning of potential trouble with technical counsel and a round-the-clock customer support system,” Kress says. “It has the added benefit of giving us a real-time status report on how our new engines are performing. It also gives drivers the reassurance to know that help is only a phone call – or satellite message – away, regardless of where they are or what time it is.”

In many cases, Kress says Volvo Link Sentry can identify issues before they become problems, preventing unplanned downtime.

Volvo Link Sentry and Volvo Action Service are being offered for three years free-of-charge on 2008 model year trucks with ’07 engines, which go on sale in the first quarter of 2007. After three years, the services will be available at a price.