Truck

Motor vehicle designed to transport cargo

For other uses, see Truck (disambiguation).

A modern Freightliner M2 106 truck

A truck or lorry is a motor vehicle designed primarily to transport cargo. Trucks vary greatly in size, power, and configuration, with the smallest being mechanically similar to an automobile. Commercial trucks can be very large and powerful and may be configured to mount specialized equipment, such as in the case of fire trucks, concrete mixers, and suction excavators.

History

The 1896 Daimler Motoren Gesellschaft truck

The history of trucks dates back to the late 19th century. The first motor truck was built in 1896 by the Daimler Motoren Gesellschaft. This early truck was powered by a two-cylinder engine and had a belt drive with two forward speeds and one reverse.

In the early 20th century, trucks began to be used more widely. The 1903 Eldridge truck was one of the early models that contributed to the development of the trucking industry. By the 1920s, trucks had become a vital part of the transportation industry.

A 1924 Super Sentinel steam-powered truck

Steam-powered trucks, such as the 1924 Super Sentinel, were also used during this period, although they were eventually replaced by more efficient internal combustion engines.

Types of Trucks

Trucks are classified into several categories based on their size and function:

Light Trucks

Light trucks are smaller and include vehicles such as pickup trucks and vans. They are often used for personal transport and small business deliveries.

Medium Trucks

Medium trucks are larger than light trucks and are used for local delivery and service purposes. Examples include the Freightliner M2 106.

Heavy Trucks

Heavy trucks are the largest on-road vehicles and are used for long-haul transportation. They include tractor units and semi-trailers.

Electric and Alternative Fuel Trucks

A 1911 Walker Electric Truck

Electric trucks have been around since the early 20th century, with models like the 1911 Walker Electric Truck. Today, there is a renewed interest in electric trucks due to environmental concerns and advancements in battery technology.

The Ford F-150 Lightning, an electric pickup truck

Modern electric trucks, such as the Ford F-150 Lightning, offer zero emissions and are becoming increasingly popular.

Notable Historical Trucks

The 1903 Eldridge truck

Several trucks have played significant roles in the development of the trucking industry:

• The 1896 Daimler Motoren Gesellschaft truck was the first motor truck.
• The 1903 Eldridge truck was an early model that helped establish the industry.
• The 1924 Super Sentinel was a notable steam-powered truck.
• The 1911 Walker Electric Truck was an early electric vehicle.

Modern Developments

A Foden Diesel Truck

Modern trucks are equipped with advanced technology, including diesel engines, automatic transmissions, and sophisticated safety systems. The Foden Diesel Truck is an example of a modern diesel-powered vehicle.

Related Pages

• Automobile
• Bus
• Van
• Pickup truck
• Semi-trailer truck