The Birth of Tractor Trailers
The invention of the tractor trailer is credited to John C. Endebrock who founded the trailmobile company in 1915. In pre-trailer days almost everything that was shipped on land went by rail. Trailers were initially created so that more cargo could be transported at one time coupled with the fact that early trucks had limited capacities. Making good use of the empty space in-between the truck cabs and the cargo, trailers first appeared on the roads in the United States around 1915.
Development of the Tractor Trailer
The first ‘semi-trailer’ or trailer that could couple with an automobile was designed by Fruehauf Corporation in 1914 and patented in the year 1927. This design eliminated the need for horses or animals to pull the wagons. The combination of the tractor and trailer made it possible to carry heavier loads and over longer distances. The modern tractor trailers that carry large amounts of goods on highways today were developed in the 1940s. A key milestone in the development of tractor trailers was the introduction of the diesel engine in the late 1930s. The diesel engine was very powerful and durable and provided the necessary power and speed to these heavy vehicles.
Popularity of Tractor Trailers
Tractor trailers are considered the most economical and efficient way to move large quantities of goods across land. Today, almost all freight travel across the United States is transported in tractor trailers. The evolution of the modern day tractor-trailer has allowed goods to be transported not just across the United States but also overseas. Tractor trailers have revolutionized logistics around the world.
The Future of Tractor Trailers
Modern day technology is going to transform the transportation industry and tractor trailers are not going to be left behind. The use of electric and self-driving trucks is the way of the future. As electric and self-driving abilities are developed and improved, we will gradually see the opening of the era of sustainable transportation. Tesla has already introduced an electric semi-truck and many other established brands are working on similar models. The use of self-driving trucks may take a little more time, but it is estimated that the technology would evolve in the next 5-10 years.
Conclusion
The invention of tractor trailers has marked a watershed moment in the transportation industry as logistics was made more efficient and economical. As the transportation industry continues to evolve, it is clear that the tractor trailer is and will continue to be at the forefront of new technological innovations that will lead to sustainable transportation methods.