Did You Know? QUIZ + Fun Facts About Semi-Trucks
Thanks to hard-working truck drivers like you, semi-trucks are responsible for transporting over 70% of goods in the U.S. and contribute to a total of $800 billion in annual revenue for the trucking industry!
Semi-trucks are incredible vehicles that are heavily regulated, require special permits to operate, and have so many unique features. We’ve compiled the top 14 fun facts on semi-trucks from our Owner-Operators!
Take the quiz!
Before reading about the top fun facts, test your knowledge with this quiz! Are you a Big-Rig Beginner, a Semi-Proficient Trucker, or an Eighteen-Wheel Expert?! Find out now and then afterwards (no cheating!), keep scrolling and learn more about the questions and dig into the fun facts! We’ll warn you, even our most seasoned truck drivers say this is a tough one - but so are you!
So, how did you do!? Where does your semi-truck knowledge stand? Below we provide the answers (bolded) a bit more context on the questions. Just a note - these are not necessarily in the same order as the quiz.
Did you know…
Alexander Winton built the first semi truck in 1898 in Cleveland with the intention of transporting cars. It wasn’t until almost two decades later when it became apparent how valuable they would be in moving freight!
It’s interesting because the word “semi” actually refers to the trailer that the truck pulls! It got its name because they only have wheels on one end, and rest on the cab in order to function. The full name, semi-truck, refers to both the truck and the trailer combined.
Trucks can pull many different types of trailers - dry van, reefer, flat bed, tanker, hazmat, end dump, and more. Dry van trailers are one of the most common types and offer many benefits, including versatility, protection, and affordability. This is the type of trailer we currently haul here at TrueNorth!
An engine can last up to 1 million miles on average (whereas cars only last until about 200,000 miles)
Depending on the model, semi trucks can have up to 18 gears! According to many of our drivers, the best transmission is a 13-speed.
Without special permits, trucks can haul a maximum of 80,000 lbs in the U.S.
The US is home to an estimated 1.9 million operating semis, with the majority registered in CA, TX and FL.
Brand new semi trucks can range in cost between $80,000 - $200,000! and the top selling brand is Freightliner (Peterbilt comes in at number 2).
Freightliner is also responsible for creating the first overhead sleeper cab in 1953. Most modern semis are equipped with a spacious and comfortable living area, including beds, kitchenettes, and even a bathroom! Some of our drivers call it glamping :) Each year, the trucking industry travels a total of 93.5 million highway miles
It takes the length of two football fields for a truck to stop. That’s 720 feet!
Diesel fuel allows semi trucks to be 30% more efficient than regular gasoline as unlike petrol, it has a greater compressive resistance.
For most semis, the average fuel per mile is 6.5. A semi also burns 1 gallon of diesel per hour at idle.
Tire air pressure can significantly affect safety, maintenance, and fuel efficiency. Even the slightest difference in under- or over-inflation can risk inefficiencies or pose a danger while on the road.
Semi-trucks require special driving permits called Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) to operate. In order to obtain one, you must meet various requirements, graduate from trucking school, have relevant experience, and more!
Check back to this post over the coming weeks for data on participants’ results and see where you stand compared to others! In the meantime, share this quiz out with friends and family and see how many they get right!
We hope you enjoyed reading these fun facts about semi-trucks! What fun fact do you want to share with us?
