Mack is planning a Sept. 13 'virtual launch event' to unveil its newest on-highway truck model. (Photo: Mack Trucks)

Mack Trucks to unveil new highway tractor in September

July 9, 2017
Famed 'Big Red' moves into Evel Knievel museum in Kansas

Mack Trucks said it will unveil a new Class 8 highway truck on Sept. 13.

The company launched a major social media push over the weekend to promote the new model, set for introduction just ahead of the new North American Commercial Vehicle show in Atlanta later that month.

Though few additional details are available yet, Mack created a new website as a central location for information on the truck ahead of what it is calling a “virtual launch event.”

Mack has uploaded one video to the website, which touts the long history of the company, and centers on the “functional design” qualities its new truck will offer.

As the company prepares for a new era, one of its most iconic vehicles, “Big Red,” has taken its permanent home at the recently opened Evel Knievel Museum in Topeka, KS.

"Big Red" in 2015 after being fully restored (Photo: Mack).

Big Red is the completely restored and decorated Mack FS786LST cabover model Knievel used as his show truck at the height of his fame, along with the custom-built trailer he used as his dressing room.

After Knievel fans located the truck, it took 18 months and $300,000 to bring it back to life. It traveled the country with other Knievel memorabilia and is now a showpiece at the museum.

About the Author

Neil Abt

Neil Abt, editorial director at Fleet Owner, is a veteran journalist with over 20 years of reporting experience, including 15 years spent covering the trucking industry. A graduate of American University in Washington, D.C., he began his career covering sports for The Washington Post newspaper, followed by a position in the newsroom of America Online (AOL) and then both reporting and leadership roles at Transport Topics. Abt is based out of Portland, Oregon.

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