The most powerful tractor in the world: technical specifications and photos

The most powerful tractors in the world are not designed to travel on standard roads. Their purpose is to carry out transportation work in difficult conditions, where it is simply impossible to do without such equipment. These machines are distinguished by their enormous dimensions and the highest levels of power and weight. Let's consider the features of such “giants”, their capabilities and comparative characteristics.

Short review

Listed below are the top 10 most powerful tractors in the world with brief characteristics:

American Cascadia truck.
"Kenworth-900" is known for its unique exterior, typical of hooded tractors from the USA.
Western Star from the Daimler concern.
Europeans also have something to be proud of in terms of powerful tractors. For example, the Scania 730 has a torque of 3,500 Nm, and a turbine diesel engine produces power of about 730 horsepower.
The Volvo FH-16 version has a power of 750 horsepower.
The German MAN TGX develops 640 hp. With.
The Mercedes Actros SLT produces 625 horsepower.
The DAF XF from the Netherlands has a turbocharged engine.
A few lines about Unkain models of the most powerful truck tractors. Let's start with the KrAZ "Burlak" truck.
MZKT. The 741310 version of this Belarusian truck has 660 horsepower.

Let's take a closer look at the characteristics of these unique machines.

What is a tractor

To say which tractor will be better, you need to understand what is meant by this concept.

Many people call them trucks. But in fact, a truck is a broad concept that can include both ordinary semi-light commercial vehicles and huge mining dump trucks.

If we talk about tractors, then these are truck tractors. Special vehicles designed for towing semi-trailers. Semi-trailers are connected to cars using a fifth wheel coupling.

This type of truck has advantageous differences compared to trucks, where there is an articulation with the body part. The tractor has improved maneuverability, high load capacity, and the ability to transport long cargo, including long distances.

Cascadia Freightliner

One of the most powerful tractors in the world has been produced in North America since 2007. These comfortable cars are the embodiment of a true USA truck. They are distinguished by their large dimensions, comfort and spaciousness. The car is equipped with many electronic systems that make the driver’s work easier. The cabin is also as comfortable as possible, equipped with a ventilation, air conditioning and heating system.

Main parameters:

dimensions (m) – 6.8/2.5/4.0;
number of places – two;
engine type – 15.6 liter diesel, 608 horsepower;
rev – 2.779 Nm;
steering – rack and pinion type;
gearbox - EatonFuller configuration mechanics.

Sad end

Soon the workshops in Ophirton became crowded. In October 1970, the Rolway Enterprises plant moved again, this time to the Alrode industrial area of Alberton, 15 km from Johannesburg. Pre-order books were filled, and the assembly of dozens of cars began simultaneously. The following year, new four-axle tractors appeared in the program. Cummins engines with power up to 700 hp, Allison, Spicer, Fuller and Clark transmissions, Rockwell, Hendrickson and Eaton axles, as well as other units were delivered to the warehouse.

Each Ralph car was built according to the customer's wishes and it was difficult to find two identical ones. Early cars combined the design of British and American design schools; later the cars began to look more and more like American ones. Gradually, original individuality began to disappear, the design of models became standardized.

The successful year 1970 attracted investors - a large company, Industrial Development Corp., took a share, which acquired a controlling stake in Rolway Enterprises, ensuring the expansion of production at the new plant. But at the same time, with the help of the investor, the company’s administration staff also expanded, the maintenance of which required extra expenses. Ralph Lewis built his first cars with his own hands, and only four workers helped him. He made decisions himself, did the accounting himself, was engaged in advertising and sales of products himself... And at the new plant, his creative enthusiasm was limited by the strict framework of classical capitalism.

Car production increased, but shareholder income fell. This situation could not satisfy the new owners. At the same time, competition from foreign concerns has increased. Such well-known companies in this profile as FAUN from West Germany and Pacific from Canada intervened in the sale of tractors for transporting oversized cargo, displacing not only the British, but also the only South African manufacturer.

At the end of 1971, Ralph cars were “decided to live for a long time.” A total of 41 units were produced (the press often indicates the number 42, but publicists do not take into account that chassis No. 0024 was not manufactured). Three more tractors were in the assembly stage, but work on them was not finished. When the company was liquidated, the unfinished cars were sold for next to nothing in parts. Deprived of his favorite business, Ralph Lewis left with his family for California and no longer worked with cars...

Ralph C6 S3 vehicles from Rio Rita Tankers (Pty.) Ltd of Randfontein. Chassis No. 0021 and No. 0022 are equipped with Cummins NTC-350 engines and Spicer gearboxes. 1971 (Richard Stanier)

Kenworth W900 ("Kenworth")

The truck has classic features typical of American style. It is offered with 12.9 liter diesel engines with up to 507 horsepower.

Other characteristics:

torsion moment – 2.508 Nm;
length/width/height (m) – 8.0/2.7/4.0;
ground clearance (cm) – 25;
curb weight (t) – 9.0;
maximum speed (km/h) – 115;
suspension type - dependent unit;
brake system - drums front and rear;
gearbox – manual with 15 modes.

Fuel consumption is about 40 liters per “hundred”; hydraulic power steering makes steering easier.

Differences between dump trucks

The most popular vehicles from the huge selection of special equipment remain dump trucks.

The capabilities of machines of this type are widely used in the construction of any objects. The customer selects a dump truck depending on the load capacity and dimensions of the vehicle. The method of unloading is also important. Small dump trucks are capable of transporting cargo from 5 tons and are the main trucks that can often be found on city roads. Mining dump trucks have the ability to transport 300-450 tons of cargo.

Large dump trucks are prohibited from driving on public roads. If a truck weighs more than 40 tons, passage is closed to it. Asphalt pavement cannot withstand such a load. In addition, the dimensions of such a car can block the movement of other vehicles.

Western Star 4900 EX ("Western Star")

One of the most powerful tractors in the world is manufactured by the Daimler concern. In fact, the car is a real house on wheels, equipped with a comfortable living compartment. Under the hood is a Detroit DD16 in-line engine with 16 cylinders or a Cummins ISX15. Both power units produce 608 horsepower.

Brief characteristics:

wheelbase (m) – 4.77;
number of forward gears – 10/13/17;
features - exhaust pipes leading to the hood and rectangular headlights;
body covering – chrome.

AT-T tractor loading platform

The loading platform of tractors of this model is metal, welded, and equipped with an awning. The floor is flat and has hatches for access to the winch. There is a folding tailgate and rows of seats located along or across the sides. They can accommodate 18 personnel. The loading capacity of this cargo platform is 5000 kilograms, its internal dimensions are as follows: 3,576 x 2,950 x 3,600 m, floor area is 10.5 square meters.

Scania R 730 ("Scania")

The very name of the car encrypts its power (730 horses). This car is a real dream for truckers, as it provides the most comfortable transportation of heavy loads.

About parameters:

torsion moment (Nm) – 3.500;
engine – 16.4 liter turbine diesel unit;
transmission – “robot” with 12 modes;
number of cylinders – eight;
consumption - approximately 40 liters of fuel per 100 km;
length/width/height (m) – 7.5/2.49/2.8;
curb weight (t) – 7.8;
wheelbase (m) – 3.7.

Scania R730 V8

Despite its ten-year age, this long-haul tractor continues to be considered one of the most popular trucks in the Old World. It is often found on Russian roads. The main advantage of the model is its ease of operation and high level of reliability. Over these ten years, the truck has been repeatedly improved taking into account the identified shortcomings, and now the tractor is able to reliably transport large loads on roads with terrain of any complexity, including off-road, feel confident as part of road trains and adequately endure the hardships of hot and cold climates.

Despite its decent dimensions, the tractor is considered to be quite maneuverable, but the truck holds the road confidently at high speeds. And although the cost of a German car is high, the payback is also at a decent level due to the excellent wear resistance of all components and assemblies.

The truck's interior is highly comfortable, with two sleeping places. Under the hood is a 16.4-liter 730-horsepower engine that meets Euro 6 standards with fuel consumption of 42 l/100 km.

The most powerful truck tractor in the world Volvo FH16 (Volvo)

The Swedish truck is equipped with a 16-liter inline six-cylinder engine. Back in 2009, this truck was the most powerful in its class. However, the producers did not stop there. They increased the car's power to 750 horsepower, which allowed it to remain among the top three leaders in the segment in question today. The machine’s units provide 3,550 Nm of torque, which provides incredible strength, which makes it possible to transport the heaviest loads.

Other characteristics:

overall dimensions (m) – 5.69-12.1/2.5/3.49-3.56;
wheelbase (m) – 3.0/6.2;
tire type – 315-80 R22.5;
maximum speed (km/h) – 90.

Volvo FH I-Save

The main advantage of the Scandinavian new product, which debuted in 2019, is its super-efficient engines. The Swedish long-haul tractor, which took third place in the ranking of the best trucks, is equipped with the latest power units that actively use turbocompound technology (the use of exhaust gas energy). To do this, changes were made to the design of the truck's turbine, which made it possible to increase torque by 300 Nm compared to the same engines, but without a turbo compound. Such engines with the designation D13TC (the letters TC indicate the presence of compound technology) have two levels of boost, 460 and 500 horsepower, and an increase in torque was achieved at lower speeds, which ensured an increase in fuel economy by 5-7% .

The same goal is facilitated by improved aerodynamics of the tractor cabin, the use of tires with reduced rolling resistance and adaptive cruise control. The I-Shift “smart” automatic transmission is able to select the optimal gear shift algorithm, taking into account the topographical features of the terrain, and the use of a dual clutch allows the truck to change gears faster and smoother, without jerks arising from a power gap.

Numerous assistants are responsible for comfort and safety, making life easier for the driver.

MAN TGX ("Man")

The specified German modification rightfully belongs to one of the most powerful tractors in the world. It is equipped with a 15.2-liter inline six-cylinder engine. The engine is reinforced with a pair of turbine superchargers and a Common Rail injection system. As a result, the resulting power is 640 hp. s, along with a torque of 3.0 Nm.

Other parameters:

clutch – single-disk element with a diaphragm of an exhaust configuration;
transmission – 16-mode manual gearbox;
suspension unit - leaf springs with an air bag in front and pneumatics in the rear;
brakes - disc type;
total weight (t) – 18.0;
wheelbase (m) – 3.6;
track width (m) – 1.98/1.84.

About the chief designer and manufacturer

Alexander Morozov's whole life was connected with his native enterprise. He began working at the Kharkov Locomotive Plant after the 6th grade of school, in 1919. In 1930, he graduated from the Moscow Automotive and Tractor Institute named after Lomonosov, which has now become the Moscow State Technical University "Moscow Automechanical Institute". At the end of the 1930s, he was on the design team that created the most massive production tank of the Great Patriotic War, our “Weapon of Victory” - the T-34.

Throughout the war years, he served as chief designer of the Kharkov plant, which was evacuated to the Urals in October 1941. From November 1951 he became the chief designer of the Kharkov Mechanical Engineering Design Bureau, and in 1966-1976. was his boss. Under his leadership, the T-64 (in 1963) and T-64A (in 1966) tanks were developed.

Since June 1976, Morozov became a consultant to the Kharkov Design Bureau of Mechanical Engineering and a member of the Scientific and Technical Council of the USSR Ministry of Mechanical Engineering. He passed away in 1979, at the age of 74.

After the war, the Kharkov Machine-Building Plant named after Malyshev produced tanks T-44, T-54, T-55 up to 14 different upgrades, T-64, T-80, T-80U, T-80UD. Moreover, the plant’s productivity record was set not in the prosperous Soviet years, but in the fatal year 1991 for the USSR - 800 tanks per year (at that time, especially many T-80UDs were sold for export). But after the record year of 1991, the plant never even came close to such indicators.

In 1995, on the basis of the T-80UD, the main Ukrainian tank T-84 was developed (modifications - T-84BM "Oplot" and T-84-120 "Yatagan". The largest contracts of the enterprise in the history of independent Ukraine were the sale of 320 T-80UD tanks to Pakistan (concluded in 1996); Thailand - 49 Oplot tanks and 121 BTR-3E1 (2011); Iraq - 420 BTR-4 (2009).

In the front part of the tractor under the cabin, a 12-cylinder liquid-cooled V-401 diesel engine with a power of 305 kW (415 hp) at 1600 rpm is installed longitudinally with the flywheel forward, allowing it to travel along the highway at full load with a maximum speed of 35.5 km/ h.

Mercedes Actros SLT (“Mercedes-Actros”)

One of the most powerful tractors in the world, the photo of which is shown below, is at the top of the Mercedes truck line. The car has a very bright and thoughtful exterior and is equipped with a 15.6-liter engine.

Basic indicators:

wheel formula – 8x4;
curb weight (t) – 27;
approximate fuel consumption per 100 km -140 l;
transmission system - automatic unit with a pair of clutches;
suspension - leaf springs;
brake unit - drum type.

Suspension and chassis

The caterpillar propulsion system of the AT-T heavy tractor is five-roller, on each side. It consists of a small-link caterpillar chain of lantern engagement with an open hinge, five double track rollers of significant diameter - 830 mm, with external shock absorption made in the form of rubber bands, a rear guide wheel with a crank mechanism for tensioning the tracks and a front drive wheel with removable gear rims .

The caterpillar chain consists of 93 tracks with guide ridges 500 mm wide, with developed lugs, which makes it possible to attach additional lugs (spurs) to them for movement in deep snow, mud and sand. The tracks are made of wear-resistant steel LG-13 and have good abrasion resistance. The fingers and connecting tracks are fixed with a head and at the ends with riveting. The resource of the caterpillar chain is approximately 6 thousand kilometers.

The tractor suspension is independent torsion bar; The location of the torsion shafts above the bottom of the body is transverse. Shock absorbers were not installed on the front and rear suspension units. The suspension of the tractor provides the ability to travel on dirt roads and highways with a specified maximum speed of 20 and 35 km/h. respectively.

DAF XF (Daf)

The Dutch manufacturer offers a truck equipped with in-line six-cylinder engines. They comply with Euro-6 standards, are equipped with turbines, and have a volume of 12.9 liters. To perform heavy and long-term work, a power of 510 “horses” and a torsion torque of 2,500 Nm are enough.

Below are the characteristics of the most powerful tractor in the world, produced in the Netherlands:

length/width/height (m) – 8.6/2.4/3.7;
wheelbase (m) – 3.6;
total weight (t) – 7.2;
speed threshold when loaded (km/h) – 85;
load capacity (t) – 30.0.

Rating 2022

Now directly to the rating among truck tractors.

Representatives of various automakers were included here. These are like high-level cars, the price of which is appropriate. So are more affordable analogues.

At the same time, all the cars that are in the top 10 rightly claim to be the best tractor. The final choice depends on the specific buyer.

The 2022 rating was compiled taking into account the popularity of truck tractors, reviews of the vehicles, declared and actual characteristics, as well as the opinions of the drivers themselves and entrepreneurs involved in cargo transportation.

When choosing the most reliable, convenient and suitable tractor for truckers, representatives of the following companies were included in the final top 10:

KAMAZ.
MAZ.
Foton.
Volvo.
Scania
MAN.
Hyundai.

Some will say how can the Chinese Foton be next to the Swedish Volvo, one of the best manufacturers of truck tractors in the world. Everything is simple here. Not every entrepreneur or company can afford to buy a Volvo tractor. At the same time, there must be a more affordable alternative that will not be much inferior in terms of comfort, technical capabilities and the same load capacity.

Everyone proceeds from their own financial capabilities. And to make the rating more objective, it included representatives of different companies, as well as different price categories.

There will be no connection to places in the rating of truck tractors. Everyone ultimately decides for themselves which tractor will be the most reliable and most suitable for the work of a truck driver.

KAMAZ 54901

When talking about which tractor will be the best and most profitable for Russia and work within the vast country, many will choose KAMAZ. These are domestic cars, designed taking into account the local climate, roads, fuel quality and other nuances.

The presented model is a mainline two-axle truck tractor. This is also the flagship of the line. Allows you to tow semi-trailers with a total weight of up to 44 tons.

Equally well suited for driving on asphalt and unpaved surfaces. The car received a modern and comfortable cabin, good equipment and decent technical characteristics.

Interestingly, the model of the 54901 truck tractor from KAMAZ was first shown in Moscow in the fall of 2022. But the full debut took place 2 years later, when all the characteristics and key details about the new product were announced. After this, production started. Sales are only available from May 2022.

The tractor looks modern and European. A worthy answer to competitors.

Powered by a 12 liter diesel engine. Complies with Euro-5 environmental standards. Has a power of 450 horsepower. Equipped with a 12-speed ZF gearbox. As standard, it comes with 2 fuel tanks of 800 and 600 liters.

The basic equipment includes 2 beds, air suspension, electric windows, an audio system, a multimedia complex with a 10-inch touch screen, etc.

MAZ 5440M9

This is another worthy example from the Republic of Belarus, which deserves a place in the top, and also falls into the reliability rating among the optimal truck tractors for working as a truck driver.

Long-haul truck with a cabover layout. The wheel formula here is 4x2. The machine is safe, has an ergonomic cabin, and a durable design. It is equipped with a modern engine and has solid technical characteristics.

The tractor was created for cargo transportation over short and long distances, including international routes.

The diesel engine installed on the truck tractor complies with the Euro-6 eco-standard. The debut took place in Belarus in the summer of 2014. But mass production started only in mid-spring 2022.

The car looks solid on the outside and also offers a high level of comfort inside. The maximum permissible weight for cargo transportation as part of a road train is 44 tons.

The 12.8 liter engine has a power of 476 horsepower. There is turbocharging, battery injection, exhaust gas recirculation system, etc. The engine is combined with a 12-speed robot from Mercedes.

For long trips there are 2 fuel tanks. Their total volume is 1100 liters.

The basic package includes multimedia, cruise control, a 4-speaker radio, a refrigerator, climate control, a heater for an autonomous cabin, etc.

Foton Auman

The full name of this long-haul truck tractor is Auman H5 BJ4189. Has a 4x2 wheel formula. Designed for cargo transportation on public roads using different types of semi-trailers. Moreover, the model was adapted for use even in extreme weather conditions. An excellent choice for Russia. Especially on a limited budget.

It cannot be said that this model would be able to confidently break into the reliability rating and lead the top. But among budget truck tractors this is one of the favorites. Well assembled, well organized. Due to adaptation to bad roads and weather, there is no need to complain about weak assembly or low reliability indicators. Everything is at a decent level. Almost the only Chinese truck tractor that managed to really pleasantly surprise.

The model itself is not new. Serial production began in 2003. But then the car was regularly modernized. The last update dates back to autumn 2016. Then they improved the appearance, replaced the interior, and modernized the technical part.

In its final form, the car entered the Russian market only at the end of 2022.

Here it is worth highlighting the high cabin, as well as the attractive appearance. You can’t tell from the design that this is a Chinese tractor.

The salon is designed for driver and passenger. There are 2 sleeping bunks. The level of comfort is decent, and therefore the truck driver can safely go on long journeys.

The total weight of the road train can be up to 45 tons.

To operate the tractor, an 11.8-liter turbocharged diesel engine is used. Moreover, it complies with strict Euro-5 environmental standards. The engine has 3 modifications. The first comes with 419 horsepower, and the second with 450 hp. With. In the top version, the engine generates 473 horsepower.

By default, the tractor unit is equipped with a 16-speed ZF mechanical synchronized gearbox. Or you can take a 12-speed automatic.

There are two fuel tanks here. One for 490, and the second for 350 liters. The base includes cruise control, air conditioning, auxiliary interior heater, heated mirrors, audio system, fog lights, etc.

Volvo FE II

The FE II model is designed for cargo transportation on public roads. Mainly on local as well as regional routes. Can hitch different types of trailers. The wheel formula here is 4x2.

Not a new product on the market, since its debut took place in the spring of 2013. A little later, mass production began, as well as sales in different parts of the world.

The truck tractor from the Swedish company Volvo is offered with 3 cabins. This is a day cabin, a luxury cabin, and also with a berth.

The cargo capacity of a road train is up to 44 tons.

The engine used here is not the largest one. This is a 7.2-liter turbocharged DF7 power unit. Depending on the modification, it produces from 240 to 340 horsepower. Comes paired with a ZF gearbox with 6 or 9 gears, or with a 6-speed automatic.

In the base, the truck driver will receive air suspension for the seat and heating, climate control equipment, an audio system, electrically adjustable side mirrors and a number of other gadgets.

Yes, in terms of novelty, the model may be inferior to other truck tractors already presented in the 2022 rating. But in terms of reliability, safety and reliability, Volvo is considered one of the best trucks for long-distance drivers in the world.

Scania S730 V8 Highline

When selecting the best truck tractors that are suitable for truck drivers, it was impossible to ignore the developments of Scania. Now they are one of the market leaders. Regularly found on the roads.

Perhaps they are even the most comfortable and convenient tractors in their price segment. This can definitely be said about the model under consideration.

The two-axle long-haul tractor has a 4x2 layout. Can be used on general roads, making regional and international routes. Connects to different types of semi-trailers.

Some will say that this is the best cargo tractor, ideal for long-distance travel. And it’s hard to disagree with such a statement.

In general, Scania objectively now produces the best trucks of various types, including fifth-wheel models for long-distance driving.

The new product was first presented in the summer of 2016. A few months later, production and then sales of the truck tractor began.

The car is equipped with a modern cabin with a luxurious interior. The seats allow you to withstand long trips without any problems. For relaxation there is a sleeping place 1 meter wide.

According to the technical documentation, the Scania truck tractor is capable of pulling a road train with a total weight of 40 tons. Although tests have shown that the machine’s capabilities are much higher.

The car runs on a 16-liter turbocharged diesel engine. There is a direct injection system, intercooling of charge air. The engine produces 730 horsepower. It is equipped with a 12-speed automatic transmission with two low gears.

The driver's seat will be heated, air suspension, audio system, climate control, cruise control and a number of other useful gadgets.

MAN TGS

Also included in the rating for reliability, quality and efficiency among truck tractors was a representative of MAN. And not alone.

The model is rightfully included in the top 10 among the most popular and in-demand tractors in Russia. The model is not the newest, but they managed to prove themselves excellently.

Has a 4x2 wheel formula. The cabin is ergonomic, comfortable, and offers an excellent balance of performance, practicality and cost.

The tractor is perfectly suited for regional as well as international transport. The dream of millions of truck drivers. Can transport different types of semi-trailers. There are 2 comfortable seats, as well as a well-organized sleeping area.

The total weight of the road train of a mainline truck tractor is 44 tons.

The most popular version is the 10.5-liter diesel turbo engine with 400 horsepower. Combined with a 16-speed ZF manual transmission.

Already in the database, a trucker can count on air conditioning, a lifting sunroof, electric windows, a digital tachograph, an autonomous heater for the cab, a radio, adjustable heated mirrors, and fog lights. There is also an engine pre-heater and a number of other useful solutions.

Scania S500

Another one of the tractors from Scania, which entered the top 10 among the best trucks in Russia.

This is a long-haul tractor that has a 4x2 layout and feels great even in difficult climatic and road conditions. Can work with different semi-trailers as part of a road train.

The official debut took place at the end of summer 2016 in Hannover. A few months later, full-fledged production and sales began.

According to many truckers, this is the most convenient and best tractor in terms of price and quality ratio, suitable for operation in Russia.

In 2022, the model does not lose its relevance and continues to conquer the world. It is comfortable and quite economical. It can be chosen regardless of where the truck driver will work. This can be regional transportation, between international flights.

The cabin has everything necessary to make the driver and partner feel comfortable and safe.

According to documents, the total weight is 40 tons as part of a road train. But in practice, the tractor is capable of transporting much more. Whether it’s worth the risk or not, every truck driver decides for himself.

The truck is powered by a 16-liter turbocharged diesel engine. It generates 500 horsepower. The internal combustion engine is paired with a 12-speed automatic transmission with two downshifts.

Already in the basic configuration there will be a radio, climate control, air suspension and heating for the driver's seat, cruise control and a huge list of other equipment.

Hyundai Xcient

Here we are already talking about the 6x4 wheel formula. A top-end tractor from a South Korean manufacturer that is good at assembling not only passenger cars. And the presented long-haul truck is direct proof of this.

The car was created according to all European standards, which allows it to compete at a level with the leaders of the segment. This concerns safety, efficiency, technical characteristics, as well as the level of comfort for the driver.

The highest level of comfort is achieved inside the cabin. There is everything for long trips, as well as recreation. What can we say, there is even a pull-out refrigerator for storing food.

For cargo transportation, a total weight of the road train is provided up to 31.7 tons. Not the highest rating in the rating, which does not prevent the tractor from performing its assigned tasks 100%.

There are 3 power plants to choose from. These are 11.5, as well as 10 and 12.3 liter engines. Their power is 340, 380 and 410 horsepower, respectively.

Each engine has its own gearbox. These are 6-speed, 10-speed and 16-speed manual transmissions.

The driver will receive as standard a multifunctional steering wheel, 12 and 24 V sockets, halogen headlights, fuel tanks of 930 and 450 liters, a set of security systems, air conditioning, on-board computer and much more.

MAN TGX

Again a representative of MAN. Although this fact should hardly be surprising. Objectively, MAN produces the best truck tractors, as well as other types of trucks.

The model in question is suitable for local, regional and international trucker flights. Perfectly adapted for traveling long distances.

The car was presented back in 2007. But then in 2012 and 2016 the car underwent a number of important updates. The last of them affected the appearance and interior. The cabin is modern and well decorated. There is a comfortable sleeping place.

The maximum weight of the road train reaches 44 tons.

The tractor is driven by a 10.5 liter diesel turbo engine. Its power is 440 horsepower. The internal combustion engine is powered by a 12-speed gearbox, which operates in manual and automatic modes.

The basic configuration will already include cruise control, power accessories, an audio system with a 7-inch display, heated mirrors, a refrigerator, an auxiliary interior heater, etc.

Volvo FH16

Large-capacity truck designed for a wide range of tasks. It all depends on the modification. Can move on smooth asphalt, soil, and work in construction and industrial areas.

The official debut took place in the fall of 2012. A year later, the company launched mass production and sales.

There are 3 cabins to choose from. This is a bedroom, a tall bedroom, and also an extra tall bedroom.

The declared maximum weight of the road train is 44 tons, which is not the limit for this truck tractor.

The car runs on a 16-liter turbocharged diesel engine. Moreover, there are 4 modifications of the engine with a power of 540, 600, 700 and 750 horsepower.

Wheel configurations can be 4x2, 6x2, 6x4 and 8x4.

The base will include power accessories, a digital tachograph, heating and air suspension in the driver's seat, an audio system, air conditioning, air conditioning and a number of other useful equipment. Including advanced security systems.

This is the top 10 among truck tractors in 2022.

Have you ever driven such a car? How comfortable and practical are they? What's your longest trip?

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KrAZ "Burlak"

This truck, which was developed back in the Soviet Union, is still produced in Ukraine. It has the highest level of cross-country ability, capable of driving where others would never even think of doing so. This “monster” is equipped with a 14.9-liter power unit with a capacity of 400 hp. With.

Options:

length/width/height (m) – 8.2/2.5/3.0;
ground clearance (cm) – 37;
wheelbase (m) – 4.6;
gauge (m) – 2.09;
maximum speed (km/h) – 70.

About the history of the creation and production of this model

The heavy artillery tractor AT-T was designed and developed in the late 1940s at the Kharkov Machine-Building Plant named after Vyacheslav Malyshev. This work was led by the famous Soviet design engineer who participated in the creation of the legendary T-34 - Alexander Alexandrovich Morozov.

The Malyshev Plant (until 1957 it was called the Comintern Plant) in the post-war years switched from the production of steam locomotives to the production of diesel locomotives, tanks and tracked tractors, as well as diesel engines for widespread use.

In connection with the introduction of the latest artillery and missile systems into service with the Soviet Army, the need arose for heavy tractors to transport them, as well as to transport ammunition for them. The designers were immediately asked to take the new, but already well-tested T-54 medium tank as a basis.

The Main Armored Directorate of the USSR Ministry of Defense directed Morozov and his team to fulfill the following requirements:

The tractor must tow artillery and missile systems and trailers weighing up to 25 tons: 203-mm B-4 howitzer, 130-mm KS-30 anti-aircraft gun, other high-power guns, 8K63 missile systems;
He must be able to move with a full load at a speed of 35 kilometers per hour;
The tractor must operate successfully in any climatic zone of the Soviet Union;
The load capacity of its cargo platform must be at least 5 tons;
There must be a winch with a traction force of at least 25 tons;
The tractor chassis must be able to mount on it all kinds of special equipment for various branches of the military and special forces of the Soviet Army, with trouble-free operation;
The tractor should be applicable not only in military, but also in civilian industries.

Of course, all these requirements were met, and already at the end of 1947, the first prototypes of the new heavy artillery tractor were produced at the Kharkov Machine-Building Plant.

To test them, a test run was made along the route Kharkov - Moscow (Kubinka). During this run, “product-401” proved itself to be a good tractor - as a tractor quite powerful, durable, maneuverable, efficient, with excellent traction properties; convenient to use and easy for field repairs.

After comparative tests and compilation of a set of indicators into one table, the AT-T turned out to be the most progressive among all other models of heavy artillery tractors of the 1st post-war generation. The creators of “product-401” were awarded the Stalin Prize in 1948.

Since 1950, mass serial production of these heavy tractors began. And at the end of 1958, a particularly severe test awaited them: as part of the 4th Soviet Antarctic Expedition, the tractors were delivered to Antarctica. On January 10, 1959, a column of tracked all-terrain vehicles left Mirny and began regular work in Antarctica.

On December 26, 1959, a caravan of an AT-T tractor and two “Kharkovchanok” (a polar special vehicle made on its basis) reached the extreme tip of the globe - the South Pole. In No. 3 of the popular magazine “Technology for Youth” for 1959, these tractors were placed on the cover, with the caption “Snow Ships”.

It was the first post-war high-speed heavy tracked tractor, designed for towing trailers (artillery systems) weighing up to 25,000 kg, which found wide use in the Soviet Armed Forces. The AT-T tractor continues to serve today in units of the Russian army, helping geologists, gas workers and oil workers in Siberia and the Far North live and work.

MZKT-741310

The most powerful Belarusian-made tractor in the world amazes with its exterior and dimensions. The car's power unit with 12 cylinders is capable of reaching 660 horsepower with a torque of 2,450 Nm. The vehicle's wide off-road tires allow it to overcome the most difficult terrain on any off-road terrain.

Technical indicators:

dimensions (m) – 12.6/3.07/3.01;
curb weight (t) – 21.0;
load capacity (t) – up to 24;
speed threshold (km/h) – 70;
Power reserve (km) – 1000.

Russian truck manufacturers: the best models

Russian manufacturers offer vehicles for transporting packaged and bulk cargo, as well as tanks for delivering water and process fluids. The GAZ company operates in the small-sized equipment market, and the KamAZ plant supplies medium- and heavy-duty vehicles. The products of the Ural Automobile Plant are designed for use in off-road conditions, and they assemble mining dump trucks of models 45251 and 7501 (load capacity 45 and 60 tons, respectively) on special orders.

Ural

The Ural Automobile Plant produces on-board equipment, dump trucks, crew buses and special vehicles based on a unified chassis with all-wheel drive and rear balancer suspension (Next and M families).

For use on paved roads, the Ural-6370K with rear axle drive. The equipment is equipped with diesel engines. Upon request, power units designed to operate on a compressed gas mixture CNG/LNG can be supplied.

Dump truck Tonar

The Tonar brand produces semi-trailers (bodies made of rolled steel or aluminum sheets) designed to work with truck tractors of any model. A separate division produces technological dump trucks for quarry work. The equipment is distinguished by reinforced suspension and a dump body with a protective canopy over the cab.

The truck carrying ore can accelerate to 40 km/h and is not intended for use on public .

GAS

The product line of the Nizhny Novgorod GAZ enterprise includes the light-tonnage GAZelle and Sobol families, the medium-tonnage GAZon Next and the Sadko series of utilitarian vehicles with an all-wheel drive system.

The vehicles are equipped with ZMZ gasoline engines ; some models use Cummins diesel engines with a controlled boost system. In addition to modifications with a standard wheelbase, extended versions .

MAZ dump truck

The Belarusian MAZ plant uses Russian, European and Chinese diesel engines in its vehicles. Photos and detailed descriptions of the products are presented on the manufacturer's website. The customer can obtain a chassis for installation of the superstructure by a third party. MAZ equipment allows the owner to earn money from cargo transportation only if it is serviced in a timely manner.

The disadvantage is the low quality of painting of the cabins, which become rusty after 2-3 years of operation.

KamAZ

The Russian KamAZ plant offers trucks with both an old cab (slightly different from the models of the mid-70s) and a new one (borrowed from Mercedes Benz).

To deliver cargo in off-road conditions, vehicles with an all-wheel drive system and a range of transmissions have been developed. The five-ton 4308 is designed for use in urban environments (the version with an onboard platform carries up to 5.73 tons of cargo).

Nicolas Tractomas ("Nicholas Tractomas")

The French largest and most powerful tractor in the world is equipped with a power unit that has the following characteristics:

modification - "Caterpillar" 3412;
power parameter (hp) – 912;
working volume (l) – 27.3;
transmission unit - automatic transmission;
number of working stages – 12.

The truck is capable of transporting up to 900 tons of cargo in a road train, is produced in a limited series, and is used in South Africa to transport transformer structures from ports to power plants.

Epilogue

Five years after the liquidation of Rolway Enterprises, Western countries imposed sanctions against South Africa's apartheid policy (the official policy of racial segregation). The reason was the unrest - the uprising of black Africans in Soweto and the harsh reaction of the authorities, including the introduction of a state of emergency. Sanctions, as often happens, caused a revival in South African industry, including the automotive industry. Local factories learned to make excellent cars, on which everything down to the last screw was of domestic production, although their design was mainly based on foreign licenses. It’s a pity that Ralph Lewis’s plant had already been destroyed by that time - he could have had a second chance. After all, these tractors were distinguished by incredible quality of material and workmanship; they worked properly for decades. Currently, there are probably at least two Ralph cars still roaming around South Africa.

The reader may have a question: was it worth telling about some “workshop” on the other side of the world, which assembled only four dozen cars in a couple of years? Moreover, none of us have probably seen them “live”? But why then do colleagues periodically remember them, publishing notes in the foreign press or discussing them on various forums and social networking groups? Take a look at these giants briefly glimpsed in history! They serve as proof that the determining factor in the celebrity of a car is not always its quantity.

Currently, nothing special is happening in the transport of oversized cargo in South Africa. The legendary Pacific and FAUN tractors are still alive, but there are few of them left. Most often you can see brands that are familiar to us - Mercedes-Benz, MAN, Scania, Volvo, less often we come across Nicolas, Oshkosh, International, Kenworth, Freightliner, Western Star... Everything is the same as everywhere else.

For assistance in preparing the material, the author and editors express gratitude to Richard Stanier (Great Britain)

Release and shipment of Ralph tractors (according to South African Transport, 10/1980)

Chassis, no.	Years of manufacture	Model	Customer / Operator
0001	1967–1968	G8 A3	Heavy Transport & Plant Hire
0002	1970	G12 A5	South African Army, later Trojan Transport
0003	1970	G8 S4	Heavy Transport & Plant Hire
0004	1970	C6 F3	African Oxygen (AFROX)
0005	1970	G8 S3	Sable Trucking
0006–0009	1969	G8 A3	South African Railways, Abnormal Loads Div.
0010–0011	1969–1970	C6 F3	African Oxygen (AFROX)
0012–0014	1970	C6 S3	Rio Rita Tankers
0015–0016	1970	C12 C3	Consolidated Diamond Mines SWA
0017–0019	1970	C6 S3	FTS Binders
0020	1970	C6 S3	Union Liquid Air
0021–0022	1970	C6 S3	Rio Rita Tankers
0023	1971	C6 S3	Cape Asbestos Removals
0025–0027	1971	C6 F3	Els Transport
0028	1971	C6 S4	Transvaal Heavy Transport
0029	1971	C6 A4	LTA Construction
0030	1971	C6 A4	Department of Water Resources
0031	1971	C6 S4	MAB Engineering
0032	1971	C6 S4	Broad Acres
0033–0035	1971	C12 C3	Consolidated Diamond Mines SWA
0036	1971	C6 F3	Kirtons Transport
0037	1971	C6 F3	Rio Rita Tankers
0038	1971	C6 S3	Savage & Lovemore
0039–0040	1971	C6 S3	African Oxygen (AFROX)
0041	1971	C6 F3	Cape Asbestos Removals
0042	1971	C6 F3	NSG Electrical
0048–0050	–	C6 S3	Assembly not completed, sold in parts

Explanation of model indices: the first letter is the engine brand (G = GM Detroit Diesel; C = Cummins); the first digit is the number of engine cylinders; the second letter is the KP brand (A = Allison; S = Spicer; F = Fuller; C = Clark); the second number is the number of axes.

The most purchased freight transport in Russia

The world's largest cars are no match for the workhorses that are widely used in urban construction. They are compact, easy to unload and have more options when driving on city streets than large giants. The most popular brands of trucks in Russia are KamAZ, GAZ and MAZ.

Almost 30% of all trucks purchased in Russia are KamAZ vehicles. Over the past year, about 21,300 cars were purchased. Buyers preferred brands 65115 and 6520. KamAZ series 43118 was also among the frequently purchased ones.

Last year, Russians purchased 8,988 GAZ cars and 6,927 MAZ trucks. Among Gorky vehicles, trucks of the 3308 “Sadko”, 3309 and 3310 “Valdai” series were popular. Among MAZs, preference was given to the 5440 and 5516 series. Cars are in demand among Russian residents, since many car services repair them. The necessary spare parts are always available.

The next popular brands were the German MAN (4.1 thousand cars) and the Swedish Scania (4.4 thousand cars).

Among the 25 leaders were also URAL, ZIL, NEFAZ.