When Did the First Tow Truck Come Out?

The first tow truck came out in 1916, and has been a staple of the automotive industry ever since. The concept of a tow truck was first developed by Ernest Holmes Sr., who was an auto repair shop owner in Chattanooga, Tennessee. He created the first tow truck to help other businesses in the area move disabled or broken-down cars from one place to another.

The initial design of the tow truck was quite simple and consisted of a flatbed mounted on a large frame with an engine attached to it. It had two winches which were connected to two cables that were used to pull the vehicle onto the bed. This early design of the tow truck soon became popular and its use quickly spread across America.

In 1935, Ernest Holmes Jr., son of Ernest Holmes Sr., developed a more advanced version of the tow truck. This version featured four-wheel drive capability, improved braking systems, and power steering. This new design allowed for greater maneuverability and increased safety when towing larger vehicles such as buses or trucks.

By 1940, several companies had begun producing their own versions of tow trucks. Some notable manufacturers included Chevrolet, Ford, International Harvester, White Motor Company and others.

These early models featured hydraulic lifts and winches that allowed them to be used for heavier loads than before. They also featured improved lighting systems so they could be seen more clearly at night or in bad weather conditions.

The modern day tow truck has come a long way since its creation in 1916. Today’s models feature sophisticated computerized navigation systems that allow them to be operated remotely from a distance, as well as advanced safety features such as airbags and anti-lock braking systems. They are also capable of handling much heavier loads than before due to their improved designs and higher lifting capacities.

Conclusion:

The first tow truck came out in 1916 and has been an integral part of automotive repairs ever since then. From its humble beginnings as an auto repair tool to its current sophistication with advanced navigation systems and safety features, the modern day tow truck has come a long way in almost one hundred years.

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Susan Delgado