Mack Trucks is celebrating a remarkable milestone in 2025 — 125 years of shaping the transportation industry, one truck at a time. What began in a modest Brooklyn workshop has grown into a globally admired brand known for its grit, innovation, and an unrelenting Bulldog spirit.
A Journey From Local Beginnings to Global Icon
Since its inception in 1900, Mack Trucks has been the power behind the nation’s most significant achievements. From hauling steel for the iconic Brooklyn Bridge in 1909 to playing a key role in building the Hoover Dam, the company helped pave the way for America’s modern infrastructure. “For 125 years, Mack Trucks has been more than just a manufacturer – we’ve been helping to build the American success story,” said Stephen Roy, president of Mack Trucks.
The Bulldog Spirit
You can’t talk about Mack Trucks without mentioning the Bulldog. The emblem earned its legacy during World War I, where Mack’s AC models were heralded by British soldiers as dependable “bulldogs” under fire. This name stuck, and in 1932, Mack’s Chief Engineer Alfred Fellows Masury sculpted the first Bulldog hood ornament from a bar of soap during a hospital stay. This enduring symbol reflects Mack Trucks’ commitment to rugged durability and reliability.
Milestones in Innovation
Over the past 125 years, Mack Trucks has established itself as a pioneer in the trucking world. Key innovations include:
- 1920s: Revolutionized integrated powertrains by unifying engines, transmissions, and axles for better performance.
- 1930s: Introduced power brakes and power-assisted steering.
- 1953: Launched the Thermodyne engine, setting benchmarks for power efficiency.
- 2010: Rolled out the mDRIVE automated manual transmission for increased productivity.
- 2022 and 2023: Proved sustainability is within reach by introducing the zero tailpipe-emission LR Electric refuse truck and expanding with the MD Electric medium-duty truck.
“Each of these innovations represents more than just technological advancement,” said Jonathan Randall, president of Mack Trucks North America. “They represent Mack’s dedication to solving real-world challenges for our customers while continuously pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in trucking.”
Honoring Tradition, Driving Forward
Mack Trucks is not only a symbol of American manufacturing excellence but also a brand with a global impact. Its products are sold and serviced in more than 45 countries, with heavy-duty trucks meticulously crafted at the Lehigh Valley Operations (LVO) plant in Pennsylvania and medium-duty models produced at the Roanoke Valley Operations (RVO) facility in Virginia.
At the Mack Trucks Historical Museum, visitors can explore how the company’s timeless values endured through decades. “What’s remarkable about Mack’s 125-year journey is how the core values have remained constant even as the technology has evolved,” said Doug Maney, curator of the museum.
Innovating for a Sustainable Future
Mack Trucks is not just reflecting on its past but leading the charge into a more sustainable and innovative future. Electric models like the LR Electric refuse truck and MD Electric series are paving the way for zero-emission fleets in cities nationwide.
“Our 125th anniversary isn’t just about celebrating our past – it’s about driving toward an even more innovative future,” said Stephen Roy. “The same spirit that inspired Jack and Gus Mack to build their first vehicle continues to drive us forward as we pioneer electric and autonomous technologies.”
Experience the Legacy
From humble beginnings in Brooklyn to becoming a global transportation icon, Mack Trucks’ story is one of resilience, progress, and an unwavering commitment to quality. Curious to learn more about their 125 years of legacy and the innovations shaping their next chapter? Visit www.macktrucks.com and watch as Mack continues to move the world forward.
Source: The Trucker
Image: Mack Trucks