Truck

A truck is a motor vehicle designed to transport cargo. In North America the term covers a broad range from light-duty pickup trucks to heavy-duty tractor-trailers, while in many other countries the vehicle is called a lorry. Trucks are characterized by a separate cargo area and often by higher payload capacities and rugged frames than passenger cars.

Design and configurations vary widely. Common categories include light-duty pickups, medium-duty box or cab-over trucks, and heavy-duty tractors that tow semi-trailers. Cargo areas may be open beds, flatbeds, or enclosed boxes. Powertrains are usually internal combustion engines and may be gasoline or diesel; many trucks offer four-wheel or all-wheel drive. Heavy trucks often use air brakes and heavy-duty suspensions, and may be equipped with specialized bodies such as dump beds, concrete mixers, or tankers.

Uses and regulation. Trucks are essential for freight transport, construction and extraction industries, waste collection, utilities, and agriculture, supporting logistics and supply chains. They are subject to vehicle classifications and regulatory requirements, including weight limits, licensing, and safety standards. In many markets, the term implies commercial use, with fleets and commercial drivers subject to training and compliance rules.

History. The first motorized freight vehicles appeared in the late 19th century. The Ford Model TT of 1917 helped popularize the light and medium-duty truck in the United States. Since then, manufacturers such as Mack, Freightliner, Volvo, and Toyota have advanced truck design, producing a wide range of models to meet different payloads and mission profiles.