There are a select few semi truck brand names that immediately spring to mind when discussing the best semi-truck manufacturers. We have compiled a list of the top 9 best semi trucks on the road right now, though it is probably debatable which is the best long-haul truck.
The 9 Best Semi Trucks In The American Market
Mack
The oldest truck manufacturer on our list is Mack, which started making vehicles in 1900. The brand Mack has remained relevant in the market since Volvo acquired it in 2000.
Three different Class 8 truck models are made by Mack: the Anthem, Pinnacle, and Granite.
GuardDog Connect is a distinctive service provided by Mack. The Mack support team is informed of any issues by GuardDog Connect, which continuously monitors a truck’s fault codes. The Mack team then evaluates the situation to determine the best course of action.
Drivers who use GuardDog Connect can spend more time on the road and avoid unplanned downtime.
Due to the fact that Volvo owns Mack, it has a feature called Command Steer that is comparable to Volvo’s Dynamic Steering.
Kenworth
Looking for a tractor designed by truckers for truckers? Your location is Kenworth. New models’ designs benefit greatly from the input of seasoned drivers. Your day on the road will go a little more smoothly and less stressfully thanks to the excellent navigational technology in these trucks.
The same parent company that manufactures Peterbilts also produces Kenworths. Compared to their Peterbilt counterparts, they typically have a slightly heavier build and material composition. However, it also gives Kenworths a sturdy feel that drivers love, making up for some fuel efficiency loss.
Volvo
Swedish automaker Volvo started making vehicles in 1927. Since that time, Volvo has increased its product line to include buses, trucks, and other machinery. In other words, Volvo’s capabilities go far beyond just producing excellent 18-wheeler trucks.
Despite having a lower market share in America than the other companies on this list, Volvo is still one of the top manufacturers of semi-trucks. Volvo is most well-known in Europe, where it generates 40% of its net income.
The VNL line of trucks from Volvo includes Class 8 trucks. The VNL line has five trucks, four of which are sleepers and one of which is a day-cab.
Volvo started integrating dynamic steering into its vehicles in 2019. Dynamic steering uses sensors in conjunction with an electric motor to add torque to the steering column. The extra torque makes it simple to put the steering wheel back in neutral. Crosswinds are also kept from moving the steering wheel thanks to dynamic steering. The reason Volvo produces some of the best semi-trucks in the world is due to features like dynamic steering.
Because Volvos are typically lighter and smaller and therefore easier to drive, some truckers favor them. However, compared to other brands, Volvo repairs are frequently more expensive.
International Trucks
International completes our top five list of best semi trucks. With trucks like the Lonestar and LT series, International showcases some exceptional features and high-caliber vehicles. These trucks are known for their performance and strength.
As a result, unusual deliveries involving livestock like cattle, horses, and other animals are perfectly suited for vehicles like the Lonestar. Freightliners, Peterbilts, and Kenworths have the best semi trucks in the It’s understandable why drivers favor them given their straightforward designs and durable truck bodies in the United States.
For many drivers, however, Volvo and International are a great option because of their high ratings around the globe. In the end, it comes down to personal preference, expense, and required driving. What conclusions do you draw from this? Tell us why your truck is the greatest and which one is the most reliable semi truck. A disagreement must be resolved!
Peterbilt
Open roads stretching out in front of you, a strong vehicle under you, and a timeless appearance that’s impossible to match: that is the legacy of a In the trucking industry, Peterbilt is compared to a Harley Davidson. It is impossible to top the classic trucking appearance of a long-nose Peterbilt when it comes to style.
PACCAR, which also owns Kenworth, manufactures Peterbilts. It is undeniable that these trucks are of high quality, despite the fact that many drivers are committed to what Peterbilt stands for. The most alternative fuel-capable trucks are available from Peterbilt. Aluminum bodies are also on their trucks. This results in a lighter and more fuel-efficient vehicle, but if you’re towing heavy loads, you might want to consider other options.
Hino
A Japanese truck manufacturer with over 35 years of experience is Hino.
Today, Hino is the US truck manufacturer with the fastest rate of expansion.
Freightliner
Leland James established Freightliner back in 1942. Soon after, the business began producing some of the best semi trucks available. The first truck with an all-aluminum cab was actually made by Freightliner. The steel that was once used by businesses to make truck cabs is heavier and more expensive than aluminum.
Since its founding, Freightliner has only experienced growth. With annual sales of more than 70,000 Class 8 trucks and a market share of just under 40%, Freightliner is the leading semi-truck brand in North America.
The Cascadia is Freightliner’s line of Class 8 trucks. The Cascadia’s power ranges from 350 to 605 hp and its torque can reach 2050 lb, depending on the engine.
The eCascadia is an electric truck made by Freightliner. The eCascadia can charge 80% in 90 minutes and has a 250-mile range. Its limited range prevents it from being a practical long-haul vehicle but makes it a fantastic choice for shorter distances.
Freightliners have drawbacks despite how great they are. One is that because there are so many of them available, they typically have lower resale values. Second, waiting a long time for a Freightliner dealer to complete repairs or maintenance on a Freightliner can be a hassle.
Isuzu
Isuzu has been supplying durable, affordable, and adaptable trucks to the US market since 1984.
Since then, several Isuzu trucks have been recognized as “Medium-Duty Trucks of the Year,” and the Isuzu company has been recognized as the best-selling importer of commercial trucks in the country.
Western Star
Freightliner acquired Western Star in 2000; it was established in 1967. There aren’t a lot of Western Star dealers because of its small size. Even so, Western Star trucks can typically be serviced at Freightliner dealerships since Western Star is owned by Freightliner.
The Class 8 truck lineups from Western Star are the 4700, 4800, 4900, and 5700XE.
Western Star trucks are known for their sturdiness and toughness. They are well-liked by people who work in logging and other long-lived industries.
The collision mitigation system WABCO Onguard is also included with Western Star trucks. WABCO is a radar safety system that looks out in front of the truck to find any moving or still objects. Let’s say a car is traveling at a dangerous rate of speed toward an object. When a potential collision is detected, WABCO will warn the driver and initiate active braking (if the driver doesn’t react).
Conclusion
The most devoted fans of trucks in the USA are those of Freightliners, Peterbilts, and Kenworths. It’s clear why drivers adore them because of their simple designs and durable truck bodies. However, Volvo and International receive excellent reviews everywhere and are a great option for many drivers. In the end, it comes down to personal preference, cost, and your driving requirements. What do you think?
Whatever model or brand you decide on, keep in mind that purchasing a semi truck, whether it’s brand new or used, can be a little intimidating because there are many factors to take into account. Even a gamble could be involved in buying a large vehicle. However, if you deal with a dependable dealer like UsedVending, you’ll almost certainly end up saving money on a good truck. Simply take your time and browse their website more.