What Is Behind Utah’s Love Affair With Trucks

What Is Behind Utah's Love Affair With Trucks?

According to Edmunds, the top five best-selling vehicles in Utah in 2022 were:

1. Ford F-Series
2. Chevrolet Silverado
3. Ram 1500/2500/3500
4. Toyota RAV4
5. GMC Sierra

There is no question that Utah loves trucks. There are a bunch of advantages to driving a truck not the least of these is being able to tell your neighbor that you can't help them move because you left your trailer hitched to it and the four-wheeler in the bed.

Trucks are undeniably convenient if you have loads to haul, off-roads to climb, or trailers to pull, but any state has these needs why does Utah rank high in truck ownership? See if you agree with any of these insights as to why Utah seems to have a love affair with trucks.

So what do you think? Do you agree or are they missing the reason you got your truck? I like the people who tell me they got it for off-roading or to pull their fifth wheel and then admit that they mostly use it to run errands. Maybe because it is such a real and honest response.

WHAT WOULD IT TAKE TO MAKE YOU A TRUCKER?

Trucking companies have struggled to attract people to consider truck driving as a career. Descent salary, beautiful open scenery and clean rest stops actually make Utah one of the top states for truckers. But if trucking companies were able to offer you anything, this list might include what it would take for you to consider becoming a truck driver.

Zero-Gravity Trucks: Drivers could operate trucks in a zero-gravity environment. Say goodbye to back pain, road fatigue, and muscle settling. Long-haul journeys would feel like a space adventure. This could be accomplished with liquid driving areas (think driving while floating in the hot tub), incredible suspension, or some new technology like hover crafting. Special training and safety protocols would be in place for hover crafting, of course.

Artificially intelligent Co-Pilots: I know it’s still not completely reliable yet, but what if Trucks were equipped with advanced AI co-pilots that could actually handle navigation, traffic, and safety tasks? If the AI co-pilots were truly dependable, drivers could focus on supervisory roles and being available as a backup in case something needs some HI (human intelligence).

Luxury Sleep Pods: State-of-the-art sleeper berths with the comfort of a five-star hotel room, complete with an automated personal chef and massage therapy equipment. And don’t forget a luxury bathroom suite. Not that the showers at a truck stop aren’t luxurious.

Instant Family Reunions: A service that enables drivers to have their families join them on the road at the push of a button. Work-life balance is such a concern that this one might be the silver bullet to solve unique challenges of the long haul.

Virtual Reality Entertainment: Fully immersive virtual reality systems in the cab to provide entertainment during downtime, rest breaks, or (if you have the AI co-pilot properly tuned) while driving.

Supercharged Trucks: Trucks equipped with renewable energy sources and advanced propulsion systems for eco-conscious drivers, allowing them to make long journeys without refueling.

Universal Translator Devices: Gadgets that instantly translate between languages, making communication with diverse customers and fellow drivers effortless.

Trucker's Paradise Resorts: Exclusive resorts located along popular routes where drivers can take extended breaks, enjoy recreational activities, and be pampered. Regularly scheduled retreats could be offered where drivers can relax, receive spa treatments, and participate in wellness programs to maintain their physical and mental health.

Extreme Weather Protection: Trucks equipped with technology that creates a protective bubble around them, shielding them against extreme weather conditions and natural disasters.

Anti-Traffic Devices: Gadgets that can clear traffic jams instantly, ensuring drivers never get stuck in congestion.

Space Exploration Opportunities: Trucking companies that are part of a larger conglomerate could be involved in space exploration, giving drivers the chance to work on exciting interstellar missions.

Truck Design Contests: Drivers get to design their own trucks, making each vehicle a unique reflection of their personality and style.

Time-Off Exchange Programs: Drivers can accumulate time off and exchange it for exciting experiences like world tours, luxury vacations, or adventure expeditions.

This list might be fantastical, but it is surprising how much of this could be done with our current set of technology and experience. So, let’s start building and dreaming so we can get more truck driving interest and take care of our current road warriors.