Highlight Motor Group has expanded its long‑haul fleet with the addition of 125 all‑new Volvo VNL 860 trucks—the largest Canadian order of Volvo’s next‑generation VNL to date. The new units are already in service, supporting routes across Canada and the United States as the company continues to modernize one of the youngest fleets in the industry.
Matthew Blackman, Managing Director, Canada, Volvo Trucks North America, said the order reflects a strong and ongoing partnership between the two companies.
“Highlight Motor Group has been a strong long-term partner of Volvo Trucks, and this order is a clear demonstration of their commitment to safety, efficiency, and their drivers,” he said. “The all-new Volvo VNL is designed to change everything about the long-haul driving experience, and we are proud to see Highlight leading the way in Canada.”
Safety and driver retention were key factors in the purchase, particularly as fleets across North America continue to face recruitment challenges. Highlight refreshes its equipment every four to five years, and the majority of its power units are Volvo models—a strategy that helps maintain consistency, reliability, and driver familiarity.
Drivers who have tested the new VNL 860 have pointed to its advanced safety systems, including Volvo Active Driver Assist Plus, lane keep support, pedestrian detection, and automated emergency braking. These features align with the company’s long-standing safety priorities.
“Safety has always been our number one priority, and Volvo shares that same value,” commented Kirk Kalinitchenko, President and Chief Executive Officer, Highlight Motor Group. “By investing in the all-new Volvo VNL 860, we are giving our drivers safe, modern equipment that feels like both a comfortable workspace and home on the road, while also improving fuel efficiency and supporting our sustainability goals.”
Fuel efficiency gains were another major driver behind the investment. With operations spanning thousands of miles daily, even small improvements can deliver meaningful cost and emissions reductions. Volvo said the new VNL 860 offers up to a 10 percent improvement in fuel efficiency compared to previous models—a significant advantage for a fleet focused on sustainability.
Founded in 2007, Highlight Motor Group has grown from a cross‑border LTL and truckload carrier into a diversified transportation provider headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The company hauls temperature‑controlled freight, dry goods, and hazardous materials throughout North America.