Legend Transport, a leading name in the transportation industry, has solidified its commitment to innovation and driver satisfaction by placing the inaugural order for 50 of Volvo Trucks North America’s groundbreaking all-new Volvo VNL series. This significant purchase, facilitated through TEC Equipment, encompasses 50 VNL 860 models, Volvo Trucks’ premier sleeper cab known for its cutting-edge features and driver-focused design. The trucks are slated for production at the Volvo Trucks New River Valley Assembly Operations in Dublin, Virginia, with deliveries expected to commence later this year.
This landmark order from Legend Transport arrives on the heels of Volvo Trucks’ unveiling of the revolutionary Volvo VNL in January and the opening of order books in April. Peter Voorhoeve, president of Volvo Trucks North America, emphasized the significance of Legend Transport’s early adoption: “The all-new Volvo VNL is establishing a new benchmark in the industry, and we are thrilled that Legend Transport, a top-tier customer, has made such a substantial order right as order books opened. Legend Transport’s proactive approach underscores the immense value proposition of the all-new Volvo VNL, particularly its advancements in safety, fuel efficiency, connectivity, and driver productivity.” Voorhoeve further noted that Legend Transport aims to reinforce its dedication to quality, innovation, and sustainability for both its existing and future clientele, as well as its drivers.
Founded by Baveljit “Sunny” Samara, Legend Transport has grown from a single truck operation nearly 25 years ago to a prominent fleet. Samara’s personal experience as a driver for over two decades deeply informs his understanding of driver needs and the crucial role of customizable, comfort-enhancing features in modern trucking. The Volvo VNL’s design, prioritizing driver well-being to minimize fatigue and improve the overall driving experience, resonated strongly with Legend Transport. Furthermore, the class-leading safety technologies embedded in the all-new Volvo VNL offer drivers unparalleled protection, a key factor for Legend Transport in choosing these new vehicles.
A primary focus for Legend Transport was the advanced active safety systems integrated into the Volvo VNL, specifically designed to prevent both forward and side collisions. The standard Volvo Active Driver Assist (VADA) package across all VNL models includes forward collision avoidance technology and adaptive cruise control. Legend Transport opted for the VADA Plus package, adding short-range detection for pedestrians and cyclists in blind spots and frontal automatic emergency braking. These safety enhancements are particularly relevant as fleet operators face increasing insurance costs, and align with Volvo Trucks’ ‘Towards Zero’ vision for accident-free trucking.
“The all-new Volvo VNL is integral to our sustainability and broader business objectives. Fuel economy is critical, alongside the numerous other areas where the Volvo VNL delivers exceptional value,” stated Baveljit “Sunny” Samara. He further highlighted the VNL’s role in driver recruitment and retention, a persistent challenge in the industry: “The new Volvo VNL will be a significant asset in attracting top-tier drivers and enhancing our driver retention efforts. The enhanced technology and amenities will boost driver productivity, comfort, and job satisfaction.”
The Volvo VNL boasts a suite of amenities focused on driver comfort and productivity, creating a premium living and rest environment. The ultra-quiet Volvo Parking Cooler exemplifies this, reducing emissions and fuel consumption while providing cab climate control using battery power during parked periods. This feature offers drivers a quieter, vibration-free rest environment, crucial for health, safety, and well-being, especially in no-idle zones.
Volvo Trucks has streamlined the specification process for the Volvo VNL series by introducing pre-defined packages for interior and exterior features, powertrain, technology, amenities, and safety. This innovative approach simplifies configuration and ordering, delivering added value and cost savings to customers.
TEC Equipment played a vital role in guiding Legend Transport through the Volvo VNL configuration process. Adam VanderBee, regional sales director at TEC Equipment, commented, “We engaged in extensive consultations to fully explain the capabilities of each option and demonstrate how each feature aligns with their operational needs. Our aim was to ensure Legend Transport could maximize the innovative features of the all-new Volvo VNL to improve operational efficiency and driver satisfaction. We believe this configuration truly represents the flagship of the Legend Transport fleet.”
Volvo Trucks has also launched an interactive online Volvo VNL configurator, allowing customers to explore features and trim levels in detail, including 360-degree interior and exterior views, to optimize truck selection for their specific operations.
