SCS Software has released American Truck Simulator Update 1.58, bringing things like the Route 66 Rework, which includes several completely reworked cities as well as brand-new ones, a new module in the Driving Academy, new truck garages, better vehicle physics, and more.
American Truck Simulator Update 1.58 was already revealed to players with its open beta a few weeks ago. However, now SCS has used the feedback from players who opted in to fine-tune the update and work out any bugs or kinks before it was officially launched.
The highlight of the update is the Route 66 Rework. This massive project revamped a lot of the surrounding areas on Route 66 ahead of the upcoming Illinois DLC, which will finish the iconic highway.
Update 1.58 specifically focused on the areas in Northern Arizona and some places around New Mexico. Since these older areas were first introduced to the sim, mapping standards have changed, so SCS wanted to bring them up to par with the rest of the highway.
This also includes completely reworking several cities, including Kingman, Flagstaff, Grand Canyon Village, Page, Kayenta, Camp Verde, Show Low, Gallup, Albuquerque, and Tucumcari. There’s also a new city on the route, Lake Havasu City, which is a hot spot for tourism and is located on the Colorado River. It’s also home to the London Bridge, which users will be able to cross.
Additionally, the city of Holbrook has been removed, while the city of Winslow was added.
It’s not just cities and roads that have been updated with the Route 66 Rework project — it’s also landmarks and scenery. Users can check out a new and refreshed Hoover Dam, Grand Canyon, and Monument Valley.
Screenshots of the new and improved areas that are part of the Route 66 Rework Project can be viewed below:
Another new part of American Truck Simulator Update 1.58 is the Double Trailer Handling module of the Driving Academy. This gives players a bit more instruction on how to handle trucks that have two trailers.
The module is split into three chapters, and players can claim the adorable dachshund plushie, named Frankie, after completing the scenarios.
Other changes include reworked and improved truck garages. These changes include updating the visuals and designs to make it feel more modern and, in general, feel more enjoyable instead of places to just store trucks.
There have also been significant updates to the in-game physics of vehicles. These pave the way for different vehicle types coming to the simulator, though every vehicle should feel more realistic and responsive compared to before.
For the most part, these are all stronger and more powerful mechanics than before. More details on the exact changes can be found here, though the following have all been adjusted:
- Throttle Response
- Double-tap Throttle Control System
- Audio Improvements
- Terrain/Surface Feel Changes
- Collision Geometry
Additionally, the tutorial has been redesigned to be a bit simpler and more natural-feeling with the addition of contextual hints. More changes include the following:
- Route Advisor Redesign
- Quick Info Feature
- Management Screen Improvements
- Truck Configurator Improvements
A video discussing the changes can be found below:
