Why are EU trucks flat?

The square shape of the cab makes the truck easier to park because the driver can better estimate the distance in front of the engine. This is ideal if space is at a premium, which is often the case in historic European cities.

Why do trucks look different in Europe?

The main difference you see between American and European semi-trucks is the overall design of the tractor unit. In Europe we usually see cab-over trucks. This means that the cabin is situated above the engine. This allows creating flat front surface and the entire truck with its trailer has a cuboid shape.

Why do European semi-trucks not have hoods?

Trucks are commonly the no-hood “cabover” models in Europe because many areas have strict length-restrictions. And, even if the regulations didn't exist, the really old infrastructure makes roads very, very tight in many areas so the ability to reduce your turning radius is very valuable.

Why aren t American trucks cabover?

Cab-overs aren't commonly used anymore in the United States for two reasons. First, there are no longer laws requiring trucks to be under 65 feet in total length. The other reason is that cab-overs are usually less comfortable than modern conventional semis, so they're not the best for long-haul drivers.

Why aren t European trucks aerodynamic?

Trucks are limited to 90 km/h (56 mph) meaning that aerodynamics don't matter as much as on higher speeds. Increasing the space for load. In European countries, at least most of them, lenght of the vehicle is measured from the frontmost point to the backmost. In US usually only trailer lenght is limited.

Why American and European Trucks Are So Different

Why are European trucks all cabovers?

Another reason for the cabover design of European trucks is regulations. In Europe, semi trucks usually do not exceed 18.75 meters (61.5 feet) in length. Since Europe still restricts overall truck length, having a shorter power unit means you can have a longer trailer — maximizing the volume of goods you can carry.

Are American or European trucks better?

The handling of European trucks is often better as they have shorter wheelbases. This is because their cabs are shorter. The roads in Europe may be modern but there are still restrictions when it comes to terrain. Being able to better maneuver your truck is important to drive through windy, narrow areas.

Why are cabovers rare in the US?

Overtime, “the large carriers that purchased cabovers, switched over to the conventional style rig, and the bottom rapidly fell out of the market for them in North America”. This led to the eventual halt of all COE manufacturing in North America.

What was the last cabover sold in the USA?

Competing against the International 9800, Kenworth K100E, and Peterbilt 362, the Argosy was the final Class 8 cabover marketed in North America, following the decline in use of the design in the United States and Canada.

Why are cabovers so popular in Europe?

Cabovers are easier to maneuver through the tight confines of densely populated urban centers; conventionals offer a more comfortable ride because drivers are not sitting right above the engine. Agebrand also refers to the engine access.

Do European truck drivers sleep in their trucks?

Comfortable modern trucks

The drivers are forced to sleep in the hotels, but only those with guarded car parks, and such hotels are not very common in Europe. For example, in Germany, there are 12 of them, in France – 9, and in Belgium – only 2.

Why are trucks so big in USA?

As pickups transitioned from workhorses to lifestyle vehicles, their design shifted accordingly: Cabs expanded to accommodate more passengers, while beds shrank. The first generation of F-150s was 36% cab and 64% bed by length. By 2021, the ratio flipped, with 63% cab and 37% bed.

Why is there no Scania in the US?

Scania discontinued trucks sales in North America in 1992 following a short seven-year attempt to introduce cab-over-engine trucks on the continent. Since then, sales have been limited to industrial and marine engines.

What is the most owned truck in America?

03, 2023 – Ford F-Series will surpass 640,000 trucks in 2022, making it America's best-selling truck for 46 consecutive years and America's best-selling vehicle for 41 years after selling an average of at least one F-Series Truck every 49 seconds last year.

Does anyone make cabovers anymore?

As far as I'm aware, you can't even order a cabover in North America anymore. They are manufactured in North Carolina, but I believe most of those are shipped to Europe. What is this? The cabover style in super popular in Europe, but Europe has a completely different road system than we do here in North America.

What is the oldest truck stop in us?

Dixie Travel Plaza – McLean, Ill.

Established in 1928, the Dixie Travel Plaza is regarded as the oldest truck stop in America.

Do cabovers have sleepers?

The Kenworth cabover, better known as the 'bull nose', was built with comfort and driver safety in mind. Some models had quite large sleeper berths.

What is the advantage of a cabover?

Maneuverability: Due to their design, cab over engine trucks have a tighter turning radius than conventional trucks. This increases their maneuverability on tight city streets and allows drivers to park with relative ease.

Are cabover trucks safer?

Are cabover trucks safe? Cabover trucks are particularly unsafe in frontal collisions. By design, cabover trucks lack the “crumple zone” in the engine compartment & hood, which can result in serious injuries for cabover truck drivers & passengers.

What is the strongest European truck?

News from Volvo: Sales of the Volvo FH16 Euro-6 are now under way and with up to 750hp and 3550Nm of torque it retains its position as the most powerful production truck in the world.

Are European Fords better than American Fords?

When it comes to American cars vs European, most car enthusiasts can agree that European cars handle better at higher speeds. Some people even say that the US builds cheaper versions of European auto that can go fast but can't turn a corner.

What is the best European truck brand?