caboverse

Caboverse is a model designation used by the American truck manufacturer Peterbilt to describe a class of conventionally cab-over-engine truck models, also known as cabovers, built from 1968 to 1987. These models featured a forward-control design, where the driver and passenger were positioned above the front axle and engine. This design provided a more streamlined appearance and improved visibility and safety compared to older truck designs.

Caboverse models were produced in multiple configurations, including the 359, 362, 326, and 377, catering to a range of applications and industries. These trucks were popular for their versatility, heavy-duty build quality, and ability to handle a diverse range of loads and terrain. The Peterbilt 359, in particular, became a well-known example of the caboverse design, with over 269,000 units produced in various configurations.

Caboverse trucks were also notable for their distinctive styling, which emphasized rectangular lines and a menacing front grille. However, concerns surrounding crash safety and aerodynamics led to the eventual decline of the cabover design in favor of more conventional sleeper cabs. By the 1980s, most manufacturers had shifted production to more standard sleeper cab configurations, and the Peterbilt caboverse line ceased production in 1987.

Despite their limitations, Caboverse remains an important part of trucking history and continues to be celebrated by enthusiasts and collectors of heavy-duty vehicles. Many original caboverse models remain operational, and their enduring popularity has inspired various restoration and customisation projects.