Why Do They Call It a Semi Truck?

The term ‘semi truck’ is a common term used to describe a large, heavy-duty truck that is used for carrying goods over long distances. The semi truck has become an iconic symbol of the American highway and is often seen on roads all over the country. But where did this term come from, and why do people refer to it as a “semi” truck?

The answer lies in the design of the truck itself. A semi truck is distinguished from other types of trucks by its two large axles, which provide extra stability and strength when carrying heavy loads.

This design was first developed in the late 19th century by Swiss inventor Adolph Saurer, who created a three-axle version of his original two-axle design. This new three-axle version was called a “semi-trailer” as it only had half of its trailer attached to the vehicle.

The term “semi” stuck, and soon it became associated with any type of large truck that had two axles. Over time, this evolved into what we now know as the modern semi truck, with its huge size and power used to move goods around the country.

Today’s semi trucks have come a long way from their humble beginnings. They are now equipped with advanced technology such as GPS systems, air brakes and more powerful engines that allow them to travel greater distances than ever before. These features make them invaluable for shipping goods across long distances.

Conclusion:

The term ‘semi truck’ comes from its distinct two axle design which has been around since the late 19th century. Today’s semi trucks have come a long way since then with advanced technology such as GPS systems and air brakes allowing them to cover greater distances than ever before. This makes them invaluable for transporting goods across long distances, which is why they are referred to as ‘semi trucks’.

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Stephen Dunn