Why are semi-trailer trucks in Europe of the "cab-over-motor" type,
whereas in the USA they are all of "cab-behind-motor" type?

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Request for Question Clarification by sublime1-ga on 15 Nov 2006 17:25 PST

frenchy1947...

Cab-forward tractors are more aerodynamic and stable, so, safer.
Cab-over design allows for shorter overall truck length or longer
trailers, where truck length or trailer capacity are the more
important issue.

Let me know if that satisfies your interests...

sublime1-ga

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Request for Question Clarification by sublime1-ga on 15 Nov 2006 17:27 PST

Sorry, I meant to say:

Cab-behind tractors are more aerodynamic and stable, so, safer.
Cab-over or cab-forward design allows for shorter overall truck
length or longer trailers, where truck length or trailer capacity
are the more important issue.

As a European, my preliminary speculation is that it has something to
do with the maximum permitted overall length of truck-trailer
combinations. A long engine nose would mean that, due to the limited
length, the trailer must be shorter - which is a waste of valuable
loading space.

Also keep in mind that streets in Europe generally have more and
somethimes rather narrow curves, especially in towns. On such streets,
a short cab-over-motor truck is far easier to maneuver.

Scriptor

Maximum vehicle length really is the reason, now 18.75m, previously
16.5m, and from another site, a suggestion to increase length to 25m,
which would/could reduce the number of trucks on the highways.
http://ec.europa.eu/transport/road/roadsafety/equipment/weights_dimensions/index_en.htm