If you own the game on Steam, you will automatically receive the latest version of the game. As of today, the game is well past version 1.40 (currently on 1.5x branches).
If you own ETS2 on Steam (which is the standard distribution method), version 1.40 was rolled out as a mandatory automatic update. However, if you are still on an older version or have disabled auto-updates, follow these steps:
Q: Do I need to start a new profile for version 1.40? A: No. Your existing save files are fully compatible. However, if you use old mods, it is safer to create a new testing profile first. Download Euro Truck Simulator 2 Version 1.40
Q: Is version 1.40 the final update for Euro Truck Simulator 2? A: Absolutely not. SCS Software continuously supports ETS2. Version 1.40 is a major milestone, but 1.41 and beyond are already in development (with features like Convoy multiplayer mode eventually arriving).
Q: I downloaded 1.40, but I don't see a difference. What gives? A: Drive from Berlin to Zurich at 6:00 AM in-game. Look at the way the sun filters through the trees and how the shadows stretch across the Autobahn. The difference is most obvious during dawn, dusk, and nighttime urban driving. If you own the game on Steam, you
Q: Can I downgrade back to 1.39 after installing 1.40? A: Yes. Use the Steam Beta tab and select "temporary_1_39 - 1.39.x for outdated mods."
With a new lighting engine, old map assets looked outdated. SCS took the opportunity to continue their "Germany Rebuild" project within Version 1.40. If you own ETS2 on Steam (which is
Germany is the heart of the ETS2 map, but it was also the oldest part of the map. Version 1.40 continued the extensive rework of German cities and highways.
Several base game map areas received touch-ups to take advantage of the new lighting. Cities like Berlin, Paris, and London look fresh, with reworked textures and vegetation that react better to the new light model.
For those who love mods, 1.40 became the new baseline. Many map mods (like ProMods) and truck mods require 1.40 as a minimum version to function correctly due to the material changes required for the new lighting.