Truck maker Peterbilt marks 70 years

Aug. 3, 2009
Peterbilt Motors Co. commemorated its 70th anniversary Friday recently by hosting customers and dealers at its Denton, TX, headquarters

Peterbilt Motors Co. commemorated its 70th anniversary Friday recently by hosting customers and dealers at its Denton, TX, headquarters.

“Since our first truck was produced in 1939, Peterbilt has become one of the most widely recognized and respected brands in the world-- a universal symbol of pride, quality and class,” said Bill Jackson, Peterbilt gm & vp of Paccar, Peterbilt’s parent firm. “This significant milestone could not be accomplished without the support of Peterbilt’s dedicated employees, a superior dealer network, committed suppliers, as well as our valued customers and the community we serve.”

In its first year, Peterbilt manufactured just 14 trucks. Over the past 70 years, nearly 700,000 trucks have been produced. The OEM noted that since Coast Counties Truck and Equipment in San Jose, CA first began selling Peterbilt trucks in 1949, the Peterbilt dealer network has experienced remarkable growth of its own. Now at a record 247 North America locations, the network itself is celebrating 60 years.

“Peterbilt has always responded to the demands of the market with an ever-evolving product line,” noted Larry Reding, Peterbilt assist. gm of sales & marketing “Our customers can trust that the same level of innovation, quality and commitment will be dedicated to the next 70 years of product developments and we will continue to exceed customers’ expectations.”

According to Peterbilt, there have been nearly 100 different Peterbilt truck model configurations in the firm’s history. “Peterbilt’s product history is a roadmap of revolutionary engineering solutions that continue to surpass customers’ requirements and set the bar for the industry,” said Landon Sproull, Peterbilt chief engineer. “For seven decades our engineers have dedicated themselves to developing products that improve customer productivity, maximize payloads, and increase aerodynamic performance.”

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of FleetOwner, create an account today!

Sponsored Recommendations

Increase your fleet’s fuel economy with the right lubricants

See how Mobil Delvac™ oils boosted GP Transco's fleet.

Career Minded

The Peterbilt Technician Institute teaches you the skills needed for a lucrative and fulfilling career, transforming students into certified diesel technicians. Maximize your ...

Harnessing the Power of AI for Smarter Fleet Operations

Discover how AI is transforming fleet operations by providing real-time diagnostics and data-driven insights. Join our webinar to explore practical ways to harness AI for smarter...

Trucking KPIs on Autopilot: Optimize Performance with a TMS

Discover 7 essential KPIs that will revolutionize your fleet's performance. From cost-per-mile to shipment volume, learn how a TMS can put your profits on autopilot. Unlock the...