The first motor truck was created some time between 1885 and 1896. There are conflicting stories as to whether it was invented by someone in England or in Germany. But most agree that Len Dubois Trucking owes its beginnings to German automotive pioneer Gottlieb Daimler. Daimler’s first truck had a four-horsepower engine, and it premiered in 1896.

Today’s trucks are much different than Daimler’s first. Today’s standard tractor trailers are six-cylinder turbodiesels. They produce between 350 and 550 horsepower and utilize a 10-speed manual transmission or a manual one that is computer-controlled.

Trucking History in North America

Prior to the development of the motor truck horse-drawn vehicles, waterways and eventually the rails were used to haul loads. Throughout World War I, trucks helped European nations revolutionize battlefield supply lines and the transportation of troops. Improvements made to trucks during the war years continued into the 1930s. Bigger more powerful vehicles allowed for the transport of larger loads over longer distances.

Though this had a big impact on the trucking industry, it was not until major freeway systems were built in the 1950s through the 1970s that the industry gained a huge amount of influence with trucks often being favored over rail transport.

The popularity of trucking was evident in the 1960s and 70s, as songs and movies focusing on the industry made there way into our culture. In the latter part of the 20th and into the 21st century, trucks have dominated the hauling industry.

Len Dubois Trucking

Len Dubois Trucking found its way into trucking history in 1977 when Len Dubois informally started his trucking company by purchasing a truck that he used to haul gravel through southern Manitoba. From that time on he was always a part of trucking and trucking was always a part of him.

In 1986, Len took a major step as he purchased his own running rights and, with one truck travelling to Saskatchewan and back, began hauling for Domtar Packaging (presently Norampac Inc.). He was then able to buy another truck and about a decade after he first informally started his company Len Dubois Trucking Inc. became a formal reality.

To learn more about the history of Len Dubois Trucking, click here.