7 Fun Facts About Semi-Trucks

 Semi-trucks are known as the lifeblood of any logistics business. Their ability to haul different types of cargo across borders through tough conditions and unexpected challenges makes them a pillar of reliability for every fleet.

But there are some interesting facts about semi-trucks that might surprise you. Here are 7 fun facts about semi-trucks even the most seasoned professional might not know.
 

• 1 | Why is it called a semi?

It is interesting to note that the term “semi-truck” is actually an abbreviation of “semi-trailer truck”. In this sense, the “semi” doesn’t refer to the truck at all but rather the trailer it carries. Traditionally, there are two components to a semi-truck: the semi-trailer carries the cargo and the semi-tractor carries the trailer.

So why is it called a semi-truck? Because “semi-truck” is an easier and shorter way of referring to a semi-trailer truck or semi-trailer tractor.

Semi-trucks are also known as “18-wheelers” or “tractor-trailers” in certain parts of North America, while in the UK they are referred to as “articulated lorries”.

• 2 | When was the semi-truck invented?

The semi-truck was invented in 1898 by Alexander Winton and the first model was manufactured in 1899 in Cleveland, Ohio. Winton was a car manufacturer and needed a way to transport his vehicles to customers across the United States. Little did he know that by designing the world’s first semi-truck, he created an entire industry.

• 3 | How long is a semi-truck?

There’s no straight answer to this question as different types of semi-trucks vary in length. However, most semi-trucks average between 20-25 meters in length. Sleeper cabs are longer than usual semi-trucks as they usually have a built-in resting area with a bed, television, and refrigerator for drivers to get some much-needed rest during long hauls.

• 4 | How much do semi-trucks weigh?

The weight of a semi-truck depends largely on the type, but on average most semi-trucks can weigh between 30,000 - 35,000 kilograms, including the trailer and tractor. Usually, the weight is separated into sections with around 5,000 kilograms over the steer axle and roughly 15,000 kilograms over the drive and trailer tandem axles.

• 5 | How many gears do semi-trucks have?

Generally, most standard semi-trucks have 10 gears. However, some big rigs can have up to 13, 15 and 18 gears, too. All these gears are important for slowing down and speeding up when transporting heavy cargo along varying inclines and terrains. There is a growing trend for automatic transmissions in newer semi-trailers which might make life a little easier for professional truck drivers.

• 6 | What powers semi-trucks?

Semi-trucks run on diesel because diesel engines are designed to operate extended-duty cycles and commonly provide more energy than gasoline to power the vehicle. This makes diesel engines more fuel-efficient. Generally, semi-trucks can average around 3,300 kilometres on a single tank at roughly 4 kilometres per litre depending on the engine volume.

• 7 | How much do semi-trucks cost?

It’s no secret that semi-trucks are expensive vehicles. But considering what they provide, they are certainly worthy investments. A brand-new semi-truck can cost anywhere between €100,000 - €200,000 truck depending on brand and type. Second-hand semi-trucks are far more affordable. Generally, most semi-trucks leverage around 1.2 million kilometres during their lifespan depending on a list of factors.

Finding a well-maintained semi-truck of the highest quality is easy to find – simply follow our guide to buying a second-hand truck.

Are you looking for a quality second-hand semi-truck?

TIP Used – part of Europe’s leading truck and trailer leasing and rental provider TIP Group – is one of the largest suppliers of well-maintained second-hand trucks and trailers in the commercial vehicle sector.

With over 55 years of experience, TIP Used offers a variety of well-maintained used products from the best brands in Europe, including Krone, Schmitz, SDC, Volvo, MAN and DAF. With 120 TIP workshop locations, you can also request any modifications to a vehicle before purchasing while enjoying extra services such as lifecycle maintenance and repair, as well as telematics.

Visit TIP Used to find the used trailer that best suits your haulage needs on a budget. One of the local Sales Managers will be happy to help you find the perfect transport solution to expand your fleet without compromising safety and quality.