In a major move for the Canadian transport sector, Highlight Motor Group has taken delivery of the largest single Canadian order of the all-new Volvo VNL heavy-duty trucks to date. The fleet operator has integrated 125 Volvo VNL 860 models into its long-haul operations, a significant investment that underscores a strategic commitment to modernizing its assets.
A Strategic Fleet Investment for Safety and Efficiency
The delivery, confirmed on January 7, 2026, by Volvo Trucks North America, represents a key partnership milestone. The trucks are now actively supporting Highlight's cross-border freight operations between Canada and the United States. According to Matthew Blackman, Managing Director for Canada at Volvo Trucks North America, this substantial order is a clear testament to Highlight's long-term commitment to operational excellence. "Highlight Motor Group has been a strong long-term partner," Blackman stated, emphasizing that the new VNL is designed to revolutionize the long-haul experience.
For Highlight, which maintains one of the industry's youngest fleets by refreshing vehicles every four to five years, this purchase is central to its core priorities. The company's leadership explicitly linked the investment to pressing industry challenges. "Safety has always been our number one priority, and Volvo shares that same value," said Kirk Kalinitchenko, President and CEO of Highlight Motor Group. He noted that providing drivers with safe, modern, and comfortable equipment is crucial for both driver retention and creating a productive "home on the road."
Driver-Centric Design and Advanced Safety Features
The decision was heavily influenced by driver feedback and the advanced technological suite of the VNL 860. Drivers who tested the model highlighted its comprehensive safety systems, which are pivotal for a fleet covering thousands of miles daily. Key features include Volvo Active Driver Assist Plus, lane keep support, pedestrian detection, and automated emergency braking.
This focus on the driver's workspace and well-being is a direct response to the ongoing recruitment and retention challenges within the trucking industry. By investing in premium equipment that prioritizes operator comfort and safety, Highlight aims to position itself as an employer of choice.
Driving Towards Ambitious Sustainability Targets
Beyond safety and driver satisfaction, the investment powerfully supports Highlight's environmental goals. The new VNL 860 generation offers a notable improvement in fuel efficiency, with estimates pointing to up to a 10 percent gain compared to previous models. For a large-scale operation, even incremental fuel savings translate into significant reductions in both operational costs and carbon emissions.
This upgrade allows Highlight Motor Group to advance its sustainability agenda tangibly while managing the economic realities of long-haul trucking. The move aligns with broader industry trends towards adopting cleaner and more efficient transport technologies.
About Highlight Motor Group: Founded in 2007, the company began as a less-than-truckload and cross-border service connecting the New York/New Jersey area with the Greater Toronto Area. It has since grown into a significant player in the North American freight landscape.
About Volvo Trucks North America: Headquartered in Greensboro, North Carolina, it is a leading heavy-duty truck manufacturer. All Volvo trucks for the North American market are assembled at the New River Valley plant in Dublin, Virginia, which holds ISO certifications for quality, environmental care, and energy management.
