National Motorists Association Blog

By Martin Banks

Semi-trucks and passenger cars are two major ways to get from point A to point B. Your typical sedan requires only a standard driver’s license, whereas driving an 18-wheeler mandates a commercial driver’s license because they’re more complicated. What makes these automobiles distinct and how are they similar?

While size is the most apparent discrepancy between semi-trucks and cars, these vehicles drive much differently. Here’s everything you need to know.

1. Acceleration

One of the most important differences in their driving is their acceleration. Cars are much lighter than semi-trucks, enabling them to reach high speeds in only a few seconds. For instance, the 2023 BMW M5 only needs 3.2 seconds to go 60 miles per hour.

Semi-trucks can weigh between 10,000 and 25,000 pounds depending on what’s inside the vehicle and the unladen weight can reach 35,000 pounds. The heaviness means semi-trucks aren’t famous for their 0–60mph speed.

2. Speed

Speed is another critical distinction between passenger vehicles and semi-trucks. Most cars have top speeds exceeding 100 mph, but you won’t get the same rates from 18-wheelers.

Semi-truck drivers typically keep the speeds under 70 mph because companies install speed limiters, which cap how fast you can drive to increase safety. Going too fast with heavy cargo wears the engine quicker and risks accidents on the highway.

3. Braking

Traveling at highway speeds means you need good brakes to slow your vehicle if emergencies arise. Pressing the brake pedal slows semi-trucks and cars, but their systems differ greatly.

Semi-trucks use air brake systems because they make stopping easier when hauling heavy loads. This mechanism doesn’t rely on the driver replenishing fluids like you’d see with hydraulic systems. Air brakes are also safer for trucks because they have fail-safe technology to reduce the risk of crashing.

Cars use hydraulic brake systems because they’re smaller and more appropriate for light vehicles. You must watch fluid levels and be vigilant of leaks, but they’re highly responsive and easy to use.

What Are the Similarities Between Driving Semi-Trucks and Cars?

While cars and long-haul trucks have contrasts, these vehicles have more similarities than you might imagine. Here’s what passenger vehicles and semi-trucks share.

1. Eco-Friendly Improvements
A common denominator in the past few years has been the increase in environmentally friendly technology benefitting cars and semi-trucks. The automobile industry has gravitated toward hybrid and electric trucks because they lower gas emissions and fuel costs.

Electric cars have grown in recent years, with experts saying the market will grow by 9.82% annually and reach a $900 billion value by 2028. Hybrid and electric technologies have brought new opportunities for drivers to learn how to maintain these engines.

2. Blind Spots
Cruising along the highway is easy in cars and semi-trucks until you need to move into another lane. Whether in light or heavy traffic, this move can be challenging due to blind spots. Both vehicles have areas around them that are hard for the driver to see, making the rearview mirrors more crucial than ever.

Operators must exercise caution when changing lanes, especially considering the force of a semi-truck. Failure to check mirrors before moving ends in disaster for either vehicle type.

3. Telematics Technology
Another element these vehicles share is advancing technology, making driving easier and more efficient. For instance, more cars and semi-trucks are using telematics technology to track driving habits and find the best routes on each journey.

Fleet managers wield telematics devices to improve safety by monitoring speed, phone usage, brake timing and other critical driving habits. These data points show drivers what habits they can improve to optimize fuel economy and safety.

Telematics has become more popular among passenger car drivers through insurance companies and their safe driver programs. These initiatives let drivers get discounts on their monthly premiums based on how safe they drive.

Settling the Score Between Semi-Trucks and Cars

Semi-trucks and cars have apparent differences — such as length, height and weight — leading to alternate strategies when learning how to drive them.

However, they may have more in common than you think. Long-haul trucks and passenger vehicles use similar technologies to make trips safer and more efficient.

Martin Banks is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Modded. He covers the world of cars, driving, tech, and more.

Editor’s Note: The thoughts and opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of the National Motorists Association.