1. What was the earliest type of semi-trailer?
The earliest type of semi-trailer was the car carrier trailer, which was used to transport the car from the production plant to the dealership or local garage. Later, people realized that other goods can also be moved in the same way, and more types of semi-trailers were designed.
2. What is the average weight of a semi-truck?
The difference between semi-trailers and ordinary trucks is not only reflected in length, but also in weight. The average weight of a semi-trailer is 80,000 pounds, but there are some commercial vehicles that are much heavier. Some countries have no weight restrictions on roads, which means companies can transport as much cargo as possible at once. Large trucks can weigh up to 170,000 pounds in some states.
3. How long does it take to stop a semi truck?
If a fully loaded semi-trailer travels at 60 mph, it will take 370 feet to stop. If it were traveling at 65 mph, it would take 525 feet to come to a complete stop. That’s the length of two football fields! This is why when we encounter semi-trailers on the road, we need to keep a certain distance from them.
4. Why is the semi-trailer sometimes drive slower than the speed limit?
In Europe, speed limiters are mandatory. Speed limiters prevent commercial vehicles from exceeding 65 mph. Not only will this keep drivers and other road users safe, but it will also ensure truck drivers don’t get into legal trouble for speeding.
5. How many miles can a semi-truck run on one tank of gas?
Typically, a semi truck has a total tank capacity of 300 gallons and an average fuel efficiency of 7 miles per gallon. So, a semi truck can go about 2,100 miles on a tank of diesel.
6. What is the average life of a semi truck?
The average life of a semi-truck is usually around 10 to 15 years, but there are big differences depending on maintenance standards, the type of cargo being transported, and the driver’s driving habits. In addition to age, miles driven are also used as a criterion. A semi truck can usually hit 1 million miles, but some high-mileage drivers can reach 120,000 miles in just one year. So, for such high-mileage drivers, the life of the semi truck is only about 8 years.
7. Where does the driver of the semi truck live?
When driving a semi-truck, there is rarely a day or night when the driver can reach the destination. Usually, the journey will last for a few days. And some countries ban semi-trailers from driving at night, which also lengthens the travel time. To maintain an efficient journey, many semi-truck drivers choose to sleep in their cars. Modern trucks can actually be quite luxurious, not only with proper beds, small kitchens, and some even with small bathrooms.
