We’re Now Carrying Volvo Parts!

When most people think about the powerhouses of American trucking, names like Kenworth, Peterbilt, or Freightliner often come to mind. But Volvo? That’s a name that didn’t always get the same respect — at least not at first.

Today, Volvo is one of the most influential forces in the North American trucking industry. But the road here wasn’t easy, and the company’s rise tells a story of resilience, bold thinking, and a commitment to making trucking safer, more efficient, and more sustainable for everyone — from owner-operators to fleet managers and repair techs.

Volvo began in 1927 in Gothenburg, Sweden, founded by Assar Gabrielsson and Gustav Larson. Originally aiming to build passenger cars that could handle brutal Nordic winters and bumpy, unpaved roads, the company soon realized that Sweden also needed tough, reliable trucks. By 1928, Volvo's first truck, the LV Series 1, rolled out with a modest 28-horsepower engine. It was a humble beginning, but the foundation for Volvo Trucks was set.

Fast forward to the 1970s. Volvo was a global brand in cars, heavy equipment, and marine engines. But the real prize was the U.S. Class 8 truck market. To break into that space, Volvo needed more than good trucks — it needed a North American legacy. Enter White Motor Company.

White, once a major American truck builder, had fallen on hard times, and Volvo swooped in and acquired most of White’s assets in 1980. That move brought Autocar, Sterling, and a rich legacy of truck-building into the Volvo fold. The newly formed Volvo White Truck Corporation marked the beginning of Volvo’s American chapter.

But there were growing pains. Brand confusion (remember WhiteGMC?), shaky joint ventures with GM, and resistance from American truckers who viewed foreign trucks with skepticism all threatened to stall Volvo’s stateside momentum.

By the mid-90s, Volvo was ready to go all in, and in 1996, they introduced the truck that would change everything: the VN.

This wasn’t just another tractor. The VN was sleek, aerodynamic, and designed with safety and driver comfort in mind. This was a radical departure from the boxy, fuel-guzzling designs dominating U.S. highways at the time. With features like an integrated sleeper cab, improved visibility, crash-tested cabs, and aerodynamic design, the VN was mocked at first. Critics called it “too European.” They said it looked soft.

But when fuel prices skyrocketed after September 11th, 2001, the laughter stopped.

Fleet owners and operators realized the VN’s aerodynamic design meant real fuel savings. Combined with advanced safety features, lighter weight, and superior driver comfort, the VN quickly gained ground. And as fuel economy became mission-critical, other OEMs began adopting the very design language Volvo had pioneered.

Across each of its models, Volvo continues to focus on the core values laid out by its founders nearly a century ago: safety, durability, comfort, and sustainability.

Volvo isn’t just looking ahead — they’re building the future. One-third of every new Volvo truck is made from recycled materials. The company has resisted the annual redesign frenzy, choosing instead to evolve and improve its existing platforms. The result? Trucks that last longer, hold value better, and reduce waste.

And Volvo’s dedication to electrification and automation proves they’re keen on leading the charge.

Volvo Trucks took a big risk coming to North America. But they played the long game. By focusing on what truly matters — driver safety, comfort, fuel economy, and long-term sustainability — they went from an outsider to a trendsetter. Whether you’re behind the wheel, managing a fleet, or turning wrenches in the shop, Volvo’s story is one that’s reshaped your world, whether you know it or not.

Keep your Volvo truck running with minimal downtime by ensuring you only use quality OEM parts. Source One Parts Center is your one-stop shop for the parts you need at unbeatable prices. And if you need them fast, we offer same-day shipping on Volvo parts ordered by 3pm ET.