“Built on a completely new platform – 90 percent new compared with the legacy model – the Volvo VNR is purpose-built for navigating congested city streets, distribution centers, and urban routes where visibility, precision, and agility are critical,” said Peter Voorhoeve, president of Volvo Trucks North America. “We are excited to begin production and get these trucks into the hands of our customers.”

The first units rolled off the line in February 2026 and are slated for delivery to Clayton, a national single-family homebuilder. Orders for the new VNR opened six months after its March 2025 unveiling.

Made in the U.S., Supported by Skilled Workforce

The New River Valley Plant, where all North American Volvo trucks are assembled, is the company’s largest manufacturing site worldwide. Voorhoeve emphasized Volvo’s commitment to U.S. manufacturing, noting, “Volvo has built trucks for the U.S. and Canadian markets in Virginia for more than 40 years. The expansion supports the company’s growth plans in North America and its long-standing commitment to U.S. manufacturing and a skilled workforce.”

Volvo recently invested $400 million in upgrades at the plant, including a new 350,000-square-foot facility for cab welding and improved paint and material flow systems.

Fuel Efficiency and Safety Upgrades

The new Volvo VNR offers up to 7.5 percent better fuel economy than the previous model, thanks to improved aerodynamics, advanced powertrain features, and idle-shutdown systems. Volvo says this increase helps lower operating costs while supporting sustainability goals in regional and local delivery applications.

“The new Volvo VNR incorporates a comprehensive Volvo safety package, with advanced onboard technologies designed to support operation in dense urban traffic and pedestrian-heavy environments,” Volvo stated. “The truck offers better forward visibility than the previous model, enabled by a sloped hood design and a larger panoramic windshield. It also incorporates industry-first safety innovations, including integrated side curtain airbags, making it the safest regional truck ever produced by Volvo Trucks North America.”

Optimized for Urban and Regional Routes

The VNR’s tighter turning radius makes it ideal for city streets, distribution centers, and other confined areas. Its features include:

• Up to 7.5 percent improved fuel efficiency
• Volvo Active Safety Platform with Volvo Active Driver Assist Plus
• Camera Monitor System for enhanced visibility, including infrared tech for low-light conditions and digital reference lines for trailer positioning
• Multiple axle options, including Adaptive Loading, Electronically Controlled Suspension, and Global Rear Air Suspension
• Class 8 configurations: 4×2, 6×2, and 6×4 tractors, plus straight trucks with multiple body types
• Two trim levels: Core for practical durability, Edge for enhanced comfort and premium in-cab features
• 24-volt electrical architecture supporting advanced safety and connectivity
• Engine options: VGT engines from 405-455 HP with 1450-1850 lb-ft of torque, plus D13 Turbo Compound engines with waste heat recovery and two additional low-NOx ratings

“The start of production of the Volvo VNR follows the launch of Volvo Trucks’ all-new long-haul Volvo VNL,” Volvo said. “Together, the VNL and VNR reflect the company’s focus on application-specific trucks designed to improve efficiency, safety, and uptime across a range of fleet operations.”

For drivers navigating city routes and regional deliveries, the VNR promises better maneuverability, enhanced safety, and improved fuel efficiency—making it a strong choice for fleets focused on reliability and driver comfort.

Source: The Trucker

The post Volvo Trucks Begins Production of New Regional Hauler at Virginia Plant appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The Truckload Carriers Association has recognized Bradley as a TCA Highway Angel after he stepped in during a medical emergency involving another trucker. The situation unfolded the morning of Sept. 15 at a customer yard in Richmond.

Bradley first noticed another company driver trying to hook up to the wrong trailer. He gave the guy a hand getting lined up with the right one, but something still didn’t seem right. The air lines hadn’t been secured, and as the other driver climbed into the cab, Bradley saw him slump over the wheel while the truck inched forward.

“I called 911,” said Bradley. “I couldn’t leave him because I knew something was wrong.”

Bradley didn’t wait around. He got in front of the truck to stop traffic, climbed inside, and brought it to a stop before anything worse could happen. He stayed with the other driver until emergency crews arrived and made sure he got medical help.

Turns out the trucker was dealing with a blood sugar issue. “I’m glad he was alright,” says Bradley. “I stayed with him until the ambulance came.”

TCA launched its Highway Angel program back in 1997, and close to 1,500 drivers have been honored since then for acts of courage, quick thinking, and kindness on the road. The program is supported by EpicVue, DriverFacts, and Northland Insurance.

Bradley’s actions are a reminder that while most people don’t see what drivers deal with day to day, truckers still look out for each other when it counts.

Source: TCA, Truckers News

The post Trucker Jumps Into Action to Save Fellow Driver on the Job appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Several states have already updated their legislation in recent years to address the rise of self-driving trucks. For instance, South Dakota created a framework enabling fully autonomous trucks to operate without an onboard human operator in 2024. Similarly, Arkansas and Mississippi revised their rules in 2023 to permit truck platoons—without human drivers in trailing vehicles.

The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA), while acknowledging the potential of autonomous technologies, has voiced concerns regarding their implications for highway safety and commercial transportation.

Delaware

Lawmakers in Delaware are tackling the issue of testing autonomous trucks without human safety operators. A similar bill introduced in the 2024 session aimed to ban autonomous trucks over 10,000 pounds from public roads. Although it passed the Senate unanimously, it failed to gain traction in the House.

Fast forward to 2025, Sen. Spiros Mantzavinos, D-Newport, has introduced SB46, an almost identical bill. This version raises the weight limit to 26,000 pounds and includes provisions that prohibit autonomous trucks from testing, transporting goods, or carrying passengers without a human driver present. It also allows testing with a driver onboard and requires the Delaware Department of Transportation to submit a report evaluating this technology by 2030, which could lead to rule adjustments.

Unsurprisingly, some in the autonomous vehicle industry argue this legislation “preemptively and prematurely” restricts progress in Delaware.

Indiana

Indiana lawmakers are also discussing autonomous trucking with measures aimed at putting clear guidelines in place. Currently, Indiana law does not specify whether a human driver is required in automated vehicle platoons.

A proposed bill, HB1057, would mandate that autonomous tractor-trailers used for goods or passenger transport must have a qualified human driver physically in the vehicle. Sponsors of the bill, such as Rep. Cindy Ledbetter, R-Newburgh, have emphasized safety concerns, stating automated trucks without drivers could lead to accidents caused by technological failures.

HB1057, along with a similar bill, HB1377, is currently under review in the House Roads and Transportation Committee.

Maryland

Maryland legislators are discussing similar restrictions on autonomous vehicles. HB439, introduced in the House, proposes banning autonomous vehicles weighing over 10,000 pounds from operating on state highways for testing, goods transport, or passenger services—unless a human driver is present. The bill also outlines a requirement for the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration to report by 2030 on the technology’s safety, impacts on jobs, and infrastructure, as well as whether the restrictions should be maintained, modified, or removed.

HB439 will be reviewed by the House Environment and Transportation Committee during a scheduled hearing on February 6, while the Senate will concurrently consider SB405.

Montana

Montana lawmakers are initiating discussions on regulating autonomous truck platoons. Currently, no rules exist for platooning in the state.

Rep. Zack Wirth, R-Wolf Creek, has introduced HB97, which seeks to authorize truck platooning on Montana highways under specific conditions. For instance, the lead vehicle “conductor” must have a commercial driver’s license (CDL) and be able to take manual control if necessary. Platooning would be limited to three trucks in a group and restricted primarily to interstate highways or within a short distance from interchanges for loading and unloading.

The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) would be tasked with creating safety-focused rules and coordinating with stakeholders, including trucking industry representatives. The department could also impose limitations on platooning during hazardous road conditions and issue special permits based on the finalized safety standards. The MDT highlights that while truck platooning offers economic and transportation benefits, it also introduces significant challenges.

Virginia

Virginia lawmakers are also considering policies for fully autonomous trucks. Legislators have proposed HB2627, a bill allowing autonomous vehicles, including those over 62,000 pounds, to operate in the state. However, the legislation mandates that a human driver with proper credentials must be physically present and capable of taking control if necessary.

The bill is currently under review by the House Transportation Committee.

Source: Land Line

The post Autonomous Truck Regulations Debated Across Five States appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

New Store Locations

• Middletown, VA: Located at 121 Confidence Lane, this site features nine dedicated truck lanes and is easily accessible from Interstate 81, exit 302.

• Asheville, NC: This establishment at 5440 Asheville Highway in Hendersonville includes four truck lanes and can be accessed via exit 44 on Interstate 26.

• Warsaw, NC: The store at 2543 W NC 24 Highway boasts five truck lanes, conveniently situated off exit 364 from Interstate 40.

• Romulus, MI: Making its debut in Michigan, this new site at 33380 Wick Road offers four truck lanes and is reachable from exit 197 on Interstate 94.

Sheetz plans to celebrate the grand openings with exciting events at each location. Guests can enjoy free self-serve coffee and soda throughout the day, along with the chance to win various prizes, including a grand prize worth $2,500 for free Sheetz for a year via a gift card. Entry into the prize draw does not require a purchase, though participants must be at least 18 years old and present at the event.

Attendees are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items for donation, and each contributor will receive a limited-edition Sheetz-branded thermal bag, one per person.

With over 740 operating locations throughout Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia, Ohio, and Maryland, Sheetz remains dedicated to serving customers around the clock.

Source: The Trucker

The post Sheetz Introduces New Diesel-Friendly Locations This Month appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Upcoming Locations for Truck Drivers

Here’s a rundown of where these new stores will be strategically located for your convenience:

• Middletown, Virginia: Positioned at 121 Confidence Lane, this location boasts nine dedicated lanes for truck drivers and is easily accessible from Interstate 81 at exit 302.

• Asheville, North Carolina: Found at 5440 Asheville Highway, this store offers four truck-friendly lanes and is located just off Interstate 26 at exit 44.

• Warsaw, North Carolina: Located at 2543 W NC 24 Highway, this new store provides five lanes specifically for truck drivers and can be easily reached from Interstate 40 at exit 364.

• Romulus, Michigan: Marking Sheetz’s inaugural entry into Michigan, this store at 33380 Wick Road features four lanes for truck drivers and is conveniently accessible from Interstate 94 at exit 197.

Celebratory Grand Opening Events

Each store will host an exciting grand opening celebration, complete with free self-serve coffee and soda available to attendees throughout the day. Guests can engage in various activities and prize giveaways, with the main attraction being a chance to win a $2,500 Sheetz gift card, offering “Free Sheetz for a Year.” Visitors are encouraged to bring a nonperishable food item, which will be donated to local nonprofits. In return, donors will receive a Sheetz-branded thermal bag, limited to one per customer.

About Sheetz

Sheetz proudly operates over 740 stores across several states, including Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia, Ohio, and Maryland. All locations are open 24/7, 365 days a year, ensuring customers have access to essential services at any time.

Truck drivers can check the availability of high-flow diesel fuel and Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) at other Sheetz locations using the Sheetz mobile app or by visiting the Sheetz website. To find the nearest location catering to specific needs, simply filter the search for “truck diesel” and/or “Bulk DEF.”

Source: The Trucker

The post Sheetz To Open Four Brand-New Stores This August appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The Build America Bureau is pivotal in assisting communities across the nation by offering Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (TIFIA) loans and various financing opportunities, expediting infrastructure initiatives, and mitigating project expenses.

Spanning Chesapeake, Franklin, Hampton, Newport News, Norfolk, Poquoson, Portsmouth, Suffolk, Virginia Beach, and Williamsburg, Hampton Roads is set to undergo a comprehensive $445 million project within the framework of the Hampton Roads Express Lanes Network—an extensive 45-mile system of uninterrupted express lanes along I-64.

“This project will eliminate a key regional supply chain bottleneck and has vast economic and job creation potential by providing a consistently reliable connection to Virginia’s port system, the third largest on the East Coast,” said Polly Trottenberg, deputy transportation secretary. “Additionally, the project will enhance safety by improving the emergency evacuation route for the region.”

Focused on “Segment 4C,” a critical 2.5-mile stretch from LaSalle Avenue to Settlers Landing Road, the endeavor is primed to introduce a full-time express lane, a part-time express lane, and two general-purpose lanes in both directions. Notably, Hampton Road Transit buses will have dedicated lanes, contributing to reduced carbon emissions and expedited travel times, which are expected to range from 10 to 15 minutes in both express and general-use lanes.

“Virginia’s innovative financing approach is helping to deliver these overdue improvements at a lower cost,” said Morteza Farajian, Build America Bureau executive director. “Additionally, with over 80,000 active-duty military personnel at eight installations in Hampton Roads, improving regional mobility is critical to national security.”

Source: The Trucker

The post Virginia’s I-64 Express Lanes Receive $141 Million from USDOT appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.