Rolling through the decades / 1920-2020: 100 years of truck evolution

Published on 15 April 2021 - 4 reading minute(s)

1908 Doubling the Payload

Can you imagine hauling cargo on thin wooden wheels? In the 1900s, it was the industry standard ౼ that is until Michelin introduced the iconic twin tyre on drive axle and changed the face of the truck transportation industry forever. Soon after, the Berliet M, the first truck of the modern era, was outfitted with twin tyres and truckers could haul as much as 3,000kg. While that may not seem like much compared to today’s semi-trailers, the invention more than doubled payload!

1930s When the Rubber Meets the Road

It’s true, when we think of tyres, we think big, black, rubber; but it’s actually the steel cords in the tyre casing that reinforce the structure. Michelin first put its metallic tyre to the test in 1937. Truckers were able to inflate tyres at considerably higher pressure levels, which meant heavier payloads and fewer blowouts and flats.

The 30s also mark the first time segmentation was seen in the tyre industry ౼ with tyres specifically designed for on-road, off-road and work environments.

1950s Inventing a Classic

Do you know who invented the articulated tractor and semi-trailer? While the “real” origin is often debated (some say it was invented by the Germans, while others credit the Allies with the design), no one questions its utility! We still see this winning combo of freight-carrying semi-trailer and motorized tractor unit on the roads today.

Every trucker knows that resistance to weight, speed and road abrasion are key to hauling big payloads. In 1952, Michelin introduced the world to radial technology with the launch of Michelin X. The reinforced carcass doubled driving distance, offered excellent handling on various surfaces and significant fuel savings.

1986 Another downsize, with a big upside

Listen carefully because this one is a bit complicated. The Michelin XX was the first ultra low profile tyre. While the wheel size remained unchanged, the lower sidewall reduced the total height of the tyre. This meant semi-trailer cargo space could expand without increasing the overall height of the truck. The increased freight volume improved transport efficiency and as an added bonus, the lower center of gravity increased truck stability as well.

2016 Grade A Tyres All Around

Just like refrigerators and other appliances, tyres have an environmental rating system, too. In 2016, Michelin rolled out its top of the line AAA tyre. For the first time, trucks could have grade A tyres in all three positions: steer, drive and trailer. In order to earn its rating, Michelin had to design a tyre with very low rolling resistance, and thus significantly lower CO2 emissions. And while Michelin zeroed in on rolling resistance, it made sure that the AAA didn’t impact other key performance factors such as wet grip breaking or rolling noise.