Cab-over trucks, also known as COE (Cab Over Engine) trucks, have been an integral part of the American trucking industry for several decades. These unique vehicles feature a forward-control design with the driver positioned above the engine. However, in recent years, the presence of cab-over trucks on American roads has significantly declined. This article aims to explore the reasons behind this decline and shed light on the factors that led to America stopping the production of cab-over trucks.

Changing Regulations:
One of the key factors contributing to the decline of cab-over trucks in America is the changing regulatory landscape. Safety regulations and emission standards have become increasingly stringent over the years, prompting truck manufacturers to redesign their vehicles to meet these requirements. Cab-over trucks face challenges in meeting crash safety standards due to the absence of a long hood, which acts as a buffer in front-end collisions. This has led to a shift towards conventional trucks with their extended hoods, providing better safety features and compliance with regulations.

Driver Comfort and Ergonomics:
Cab-over trucks traditionally had limited space for the driver and passengers due to the design constraints. This often resulted in cramped cabins and reduced driver comfort during long hauls. On the other hand, conventional trucks offer spacious cabins with improved amenities, ergonomic seating arrangements, and enhanced driver comfort. As driver retention and satisfaction became more crucial for trucking companies, the preference shifted towards conventional trucks, which provided a better overall experience for the drivers.

Infrastructure and Load Limitations:
The infrastructure in the United States, including highways, bridges, and tunnels, is primarily designed to accommodate conventional trucks. Cab-over trucks, with their shorter wheelbase and higher center of gravity, faced challenges navigating certain roads and structures. Moreover, weight distribution was a significant concern for cab-over trucks as the engine's placement above the cab shifted the center of gravity forward. This resulted in load limitations, affecting the overall capacity and efficiency of the truck. Conventional trucks, with their balanced weight distribution, had an advantage in this aspect, further diminishing the demand for cab-over trucks.

Market Preferences and Industry Trends:
The American trucking industry has witnessed evolving market preferences and trends over time. The demand for larger, more powerful trucks increased, with customers seeking improved towing capabilities and higher payload capacity. Conventional trucks, with their longer hoods and front-mounted engines, offered more space for powerful engines and larger radiators, meeting these requirements effectively.