Mack customers can now make unlimited parameter updates through the Mack Over The Air (OTA) remote programming solution, improving uptime and simplifying the update process.
“Mack wanted to make it easier for customers to implement parameter updates since some need to do so on a frequent basis depending upon their specific applications,” said David Pardue, VP of connected vehicle and contract services for Mack Trucks. “Unlimited parameter updates help improve the total cost of ownership, fuel efficiency, and vehicle productivity, so Mack is pleased to be able to offer this to our customers.”
The company offers an extensive list of vehicle parameters that can be set through Mack OTA, including maximum road speed, multiple idle shutdown parameter and kits, and parameters that control the Mack mDRIVE automated manual transmission.
Mack OTA is free for the first two years of ownership and can be extended by subscription after that time period. OTA allows customers to make vehicle parameter settings and software updates remotely through Mack’s fully integrated telematics platform, the Mack GuardDog Connect bundle.
Mack recently made driver-activated OTA updates standard on the Mack Anthem, Pinnacle, and Granite models, enabling customers to implement software and parameter updates themselves at a time when it’s most convenient for them. Each customer designates who has permission to initiate the update, whether it’s the driver or a designated technician who will use a unique password.
Most driver-activated software updates–which enhance product performance–are completed in less than 13 minutes, while driver-activated parameter updates are usually completed in less than one minute, according to the company. Multiple vehicles can be updated at one time.
“Mack set the industry standard for remote programming when we launched OTA, and since then, we’ve continued to work toward offering customers a quick, efficient, simple way to implement updates to their vehicles,” Pardue said. “Unlimited parameter updates are a testament to this, saving customers time and money, while also offering them the flexibility and efficiency they need to effectively run their business.”
The driver download activation feature is factory-equipped on models built beginning Nov. 30, 2020 at Lehigh Valley Operations, in Macungie, Pennsylvania, where all Mack Class 8 models for North America and export are assembled. Software retrofits for 2019 Model Year and later Anthem, Pinnacle, and Granite models also are available.
The driver-activated feature can be retrofitted on Mack Model Year 2019 and newer vehicles through Mack Premium Tech Tool, a Windows-based application designed to test, calibrate and program engine parameters.
OTA parameter changes also are available for previously purchased vehicles with Mack EPA 2017 engines.
Agent-guided Mack OTA continues unchanged through Mack OneCall for trucks ineligible for the driver-activated updates.
