The 1970s was a turbulent decade for over-the-road trucking. The entire industry experienced unexpected setbacks that led to heretofore unseen technological advances. Early in the decade, CB radios were introduced, creating a pop culture phenomenon and a whole new language. Trailers became longer, allowing the transport of more goods than ever before. The fuel crisis of the mid-1970s created inefficiency borne of lower highway speeds yet spawned greater efficiency with the advent of air foils and and other aerodynamic aids.Big Rigs of the 1970s" profiles all the great trucks that were revamped or that debuted during this decade. Detailed information about the tractor units, trailers, trucking companies, and hauling configurations is accompanied by more than 300 photographs. It's the ultimate guide to one of trucking's greatest decades.
Travel the 1970s, what may have been the last great era of the big rigs, with the man who knows semi trucks better than anyone. Ron Adams, author of Big Rigs of the 1950s, Big Rigs of the 1960s, Mack Trucks, and 100 Years of Semi Trucks, takes readers through the decade, introducing the trucks that debuted or saw significant revamping, describing the quirks and innovations, and offering detailed information about the models, trailers, trucking companies, and various hauling configurations. Spotlighting manufacturers from Mack and Freightliner to White, Peterbilt, and Kenworth, and featuring Adams' fabulous photography, this is the 1970s on the highway. Looks like we got us a convoy, good buddy!