The American automotive landscape has witnessed some of the most robust and outstanding trucks. These date back to pre-World War I trucks revamped for urban commuting. They have been widely used for commercial purposes as reliable vehicles for farmers and businesses. Moreover, these trucks have acted as a blueprint for other trucks with their timeless design and utilitarian features. Here are 18 iconic trucks that helped build America.
Ford Model TT
One of the pioneers of trucks in America, the Ford TT was one of the first vehicles designed by Ford in this category. Produced in 1917, it helped build America by establishing the bedrock, acting as a reliable vehicle for farmers. Small businesses utilized it for transportation purposes, and it soon began as an affordable workhorse. It was characterized by a strong frame and rear axle, capable of carrying heavy loads.
Chevrolet Series 490
The 490 series by Chevrolet was first launched in 1915 and soon gained popularity for its affordability and diversity. It soon became the go-to vehicle for adventures, having a four-cylinder engine and 3-speed transmission. It competed against other developing brands and soon succeeded in its significant utilitarian purpose.
Dodge Brothers Screenside
Unlike other brands aimed at urban utility, the Dodge Brothers Screenside was initially produced for World War I. This vehicle became popular for its durability. The design was not flashy; it featured a simple steel-covered wooden cargo and a practical cabin. Even though this vehicle was not produced on such a large scale, it is an iconic truck that helped build America.
International Harvester Auto Wagon
Introduced in 1907, the contributions of the International Harvester Auto Wagon, an iconic truck, cannot be ignored. It was a perfect blend. The rear was shaped in a car-like manner but had a flatbed at the back. It could carry up to 1,000 pounds, an impressive amount for a car of that age. As the name suggests, the air-cooled two-cylinder engine gained immense speed alongside the vehicle’s utility.
Mack AC Bulldog
Adopted by many British units during World War I, the Mack AC Bulldog emerged as an iconic vehicle that helped build America. Launched in the local markets in 1916, this vehicle was ideal for rigid and uneven terrain. The four-cylinder engine, alongside features such as a chain-drive system, powered the vehicle for such circumstances. It had a particular and aggressive design, with its radiators exposed in the front.
REO Speedwagon
Offering the perfect balance of performance and durability, the REO Speedwagon was the only truck of its age with considerable speed. Launched in 1915, this vehicle had many features ahead of its time, including electric starters and a shaft drive. Other companies later adopted its blueprint, applauding its powerful engine and thrilling performance. Utilized for speed deliveries and other transportation purposes by businesses, this is an iconic truck that helped build America.
Ford F series
After its immense success with other powerful cars and trucks, Ford launched its F series in 1948. The first generation of this vehicle is popularly referred to as “Bonus Built,” with numerous light and heavyweight options. From its suspension to the comfort of the interior, this iconic truck was the best of its time. It was widely used commercially and became America’s best-selling truck due to its advanced driving dynamics.
Chevrolet Advance Design
As the name suggests, the Chevrolet Advance Design brought about significant innovations and novel designs in the world of trucks. Produced in 1947, it had many configurations suited for different purposes, such as a pickup truck, stake truck, military-grade, and a suburban for commercial uses. Featuring a reliable Thriftmaster inline-six engine, this iconic truck set new standards in the automotive industry.
GMC New Design
An underrated model but an iconic truck that contributed to the landscape, the GMC New Design was introduced in 1947. Compared to the other trucks, this vehicle aimed at smoother driving dynamics and better style. As a pickup truck, it fulfilled its duties in terms of its practical role, assisting in heavy-duty construction. It was an iconic truck featuring chrome accents as a tool to enhance its style and appeal.
Studebaker M-Series
The Studebaker M-Series was not only used for commercial purposes but also deployed during World War II. Its durable nature was highly beneficial on the battlefield, transporting war equipment and troops. Its six-cylinder engine gave it enough power to navigate some of the most complex and rigid terrains. It was an iconic truck that helped build America, utilized on farms and by small businesses.
Willys Jeep Truck
The Jeep Truck variant became very popular after the success of the Willys MB Jeep used in World War II. It carried the same rigidity and power, combined with a huge cargo bed for commercial purposes. The Go-Devil engine proved itself, from the battlefield to the city, making this a highly sought-after truck. This could be customized further to increase its performance alongside upgrading other components.
International Harvester R-Series
The successor of the Harvest L series, the S series depicted an iconic truck lineup that helped build America. Featuring light, medium, and heavy pickup truck categories, these were revamped and improved trucks. Better seats made the interior more comfortable, while an advanced suspension system was implemented. The four-wheel drive configuration provided immense stability to the vehicle on all surfaces.
Dodge Power Wagon
Introduced in 1945, the Dodge Power Wagon was produced for nearly four decades before it was discontinued. Some of its features were adopted from the Dodge WC series, which consisted primarily of military trucks. This vehicle featured a powerful engine that suited the urban setting and came with a four-wheel drive configuration. An innovative feature of this vehicle was the power take-off facility, which allowed the vehicle to use various equipment.
Ford Ranchero
Drifting away from the conventional boxy design, the Ford Ranchero had an SUV-like chassis. Introduced in 1957, this vehicle was the ideal blend of comfort and performance. It had enormous engine options, including a six-cylinder and enormous V8 engine. It was an iconic truck that captured the spirit of the age without compromising on its practical purpose. It sold over 500,000 units, becoming a core truck that helped build America.
Chevrolet El Camino
The Chevrolet El Camino, which was launched in 1959, was built on the platform used by the Chevrolet Malibu. It was a response to the rise of the Ford Ranchero, developing a similar car-truck style to compete with them. It had the same engine options, including a V8 that delivered an exhilarating performance. It is an important truck that helped build America, featuring a muscle-like performance without compromising on utility.
Jeep Gladiator
Introduced in 1962, this iconic truck was ahead of its time, with modern features for on- and off-road driving. These ranged from powerful engines to an advanced 4×4 system for smooth driving dynamics. This vehicle exists to this day, having cutting-edge technology whose groundwork was laid by the early models. Suitable on many occasions, this truck deserves to be on the list that helped build America.
Ford Bronco
The Ford Bronco aimed at competing with vehicles such as the Jeep CJ-5, International Scout, and the Toyota Cruiser. Produced for merely one year in 1966 before its second generation in 1978, this off-road vehicle is an iconic truck that helped build America. Features such as increased ground clearance, a powerful V8 engine, and a removable rear seat for increased cargo space enhanced its appeal.
Chevrolet C/K Series
The Chevrolet C/K Series was a true workhouse, featuring a standard 236 cubic-inline 6 and an optional V8 engine. This vehicle spanned over forty years, catering to all agricultural and commercial needs. Available in both two-wheel and four-wheel driver configurations, it was optimal for all terrains. Available in medium—and heavy-duty models, this series not only helped build America but also paved the way for the success of many Chevrolet vehicles.
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