From the very first truck custom built in 1939 to the newest Models 579 and 567, Peterbilt has defined commercial vehicle performance, styling and quality. In 2014, the company celebrates 75 years of innovation and excellence with commemorative events throughout the year that include a North American tour with a specialized anniversary trailer, a limited-edition Model 579 and numerous other activities.
“Peterbilt consistently sets higher standards for its products and services. It’s a 75-year tradition of excellence and innovation that has established expectations with an uncompromising focus to deliver the highest levels of quality, customer satisfaction and reward on investment,” said Darrin Siver, Peterbilt General Manager and PACCAR Vice President.
Peterbilt was founded in 1939 by T.A. Peterman manufacturing specialized, heavy-duty trucks out of Oakland, Calif. The company was acquired by PACCAR Inc, then called Pacific Car & Foundry, in 1958, and the manufacturing was relocated to Newark, Calif. in 1960. That decade the company’s truck output, market share and distribution network grew significantly. Peterbilt opened a new, second plant in Madison, Tenn. in 1969 to meet demand and better serve its customers from coast to coast.
In 1980, a new manufacturing facility opened in Denton, Texas, a city where the company eventually consolidated its entire operations and is now its headquarters. Today, the state-of-the-art plant can produce more than 160 vehicles daily in numerous custom-built configurations for on-highway and vocational markets. Additionally, Peterbilt Class 6-7 trucks are manufactured in Ste. Therese, Quebec, and the proprietary PACCAR Engine lineup is produced in Columbus, Miss. Vehicles are distributed through a network of Peterbilt dealerships with more than 290 locations throughout the U.S. and Canada.
Limited Edition Model 579
One of those new vehicles will be offered as a special anniversary truck. The 75th Anniversary Edition Model 579 will be available for order through all full-service Peterbilt dealerships.
Anniversary Tour
Throughout 2014 Peterbilt will celebrate its anniversary with thousands of customers. A special edition Model 579 with a museum on wheels will visit Peterbilt dealerships and industry events. The museum is a converted trailer filled with displays, historic artifacts and interactive kiosks.
History Book
A coffee-table style book will be published and available for sale online during the first quarter. At nearly 250 pages, the hardcover book provides readers with a comprehensive overview on the evolution of the company, photos and facts about landmark models, profiles of customers and a section on Peterbilt’s leading brand.
Marking the Milestone
In addition, Woodall said Peterbilt will mark its anniversary with many other activities throughout the year, including:
• Peterbilt trivia contests, with prizes, conducted through social media
• Several anniversary videos showcasing both historic and present aspects of the company
• A special merchandise collection available for retail online and at Peterbilt dealerships