US truck brand International has announced plans to offer Over-The-Air (OTA) Reprogramming of engine control modules as early as 2016.
The company has reportedly completed initial in-house tests and will finalise testing in customer fleets during the second half of this year.
The official launch of two-way connected vehicle technology in new International models will follow early next year and focus on model year 2017 International trucks powered by proprietary N9, N10 and N13 engines.
“Over-the-air reprogramming in International trucks will revolutionise the way our customers' trucks are serviced and maintained,” said Bill Kozek, Navistar president, Truck and Parts.
“This is another important example of how our connected vehicle leadership is paving the way for future advancements that will drive improvements in vehicle uptime and real-world, bottom-line results for our customers.”
Kozek added that OTA reprogramming of the truck's ECM will enable the driver or fleet manager to utilise a mobile interface to initiate reprogramming.
“This quick procedure can be performed at the customer's facility over a safe, secure Wi-Fi connection. The company continues to partner with industry-leading data and technology companies to ensure the system offers the highest level of security,” said Mike Cerilli, general manager, Navistar's Connected Vehicle Business.
“OTA lays the groundwork for a pipeline of connected vehicle services such as partner engine and component calibration updates, body control module updates and future cellular capabilities.
“These and future advancements will provide improved customer uptime, fuel efficiency and other benefits that will drive added value for customers.”