Beyond reducing harness size, a CAN-based architecture gives OEMs a better operating model across the full product lifecycle.
- One CAN backbone supports repeatable builds and mass customization. A standard backbone with configurable edge modules gives OEMs a more scalable configure-to-order model: fewer unique harness variants, lower complexity in production and service, and better ability to support customization without inflating cost. The business result is better margins, faster delivery, improved serviceability, and higher customer satisfaction.
- Adapt functions through software instead of redesigning hardware. Software-controlled changes reduce engineering churn, shorten response time to customer requests, and limit the cost of ECOs, prototype loops, and harness redesign. That means faster quote-to-delivery cycles and fewer delays that erode customer confidence or push buyers to competitors.
- Better diagnostics and fault isolation. A CAN-based system can identify module-level faults, communication errors, and device status more clearly than a hardwired architecture, reducing troubleshooting time and helping service teams find root cause faster.
- Easier service and replacement. Distributed modules can be serviced or replaced by function area without tearing into large sections of the truck to trace individual wires, lowering service labor and improving uptime in the field.
- Cleaner scalability as features grow. Hardwired systems become progressively more difficult to manage as every new feature adds more point-to-point wiring. CAN allows OEMs to add nodes and functions with less architectural disruption, which helps programs evolve without reengineering the whole electrical system.
- Improved control coordination. A shared network lets functions communicate with each other in real time, enabling smarter interlocks, better sequencing, and more coordinated control between body equipment, operator interfaces, and vehicle status inputs.
- Faster software-based updates and feature changes. In a hardwired design, many changes require physical redesign, rewiring, or relay logic changes. CAN-based systems shift more of that change into software and configuration, reducing change cost and improving responsiveness to customer requests.
- Better standardization across platforms. OEMs can use a more common electrical backbone across multiple truck models and option sets, then tailor behavior at the edge. That reduces part proliferation, simplifies training, and improves manufacturing consistency.
- Stronger long-term lifecycle support. CAN-based systems are better suited for future diagnostics, telematics, software enhancements, and option expansion over the life of the platform. Hardwired systems often lock OEMs into higher future change cost and a shorter practical upgrade path.
Read more: Design for uptime – not just operation