Will the 2G and 3G network shutdowns affect your truck’s connectivity?

With many 2G and 3G networks set to be shut down, older truck models will lose access to their connected services. So how do you know if your truck will be affected and what can you do about it?

The continued roll-out of faster, more advanced 4G and 5G networks means that older 2G and 3G networks are quickly becoming obsolete. Many telecommunication providers have already shut down their networks, and 2025 is expected to be a peak year for network sunsets.

While these shutdowns will go unnoticed for most of the population, it could mean an abrupt end to the connected services of some older truck models. For Volvo Trucks, this will affect all trucks produced before 2020.

How will 2G and 3G sunsets affect older trucks?

Without upgrading the Telematics Gateway, your vehicle will stop transmitting data and lose access to all Volvo Connect services, including Connected Service Planning and Real Time Monitoring. At Volvo Trucks, we will lose the ability to remotely track components and perform software updates. You will no longer be able to access essential data on fuel consumption, and your transport managers and dispatchers will no longer be able to track truck locations and driver status in real time. Ultimately, without access to these connected services, this can mean reduced uptime and productivity for your business.

What can be done about network shutdowns?

The solution is to retrofit older models with a new Telematic Gateway that is compatible with 4G and 5G. For this purpose, we have created a special kit of parts, which is designed to make retrofitting as quick and cost-effective as possible. For example, we can save time and reduce costs by not replacing the roof antenna when it is required, since our upgrade package includes an internal antenna instead. This way, a retrofit can be conveniently scheduled along with your next regular service.