It’s time to take the first-ever Mack Pioneer long-haul semi truck for a first drive and learn about all of its features. Is it simply a Volvo VNL with a different badge on the hood and what are all the differences and changes? Let’s dig in!
The Pioneer is an all-new addition to the Mack Trucks lineup. It’s closely related to the Volvo VNL long-haul big rigs. Volvo Group purchased the Mack Trucks parent company in 2000. The two companies have been working together over the last 25 years. The Mack Truck brand first originated in 1900, so Mack Trucks is celebrating 125th anniversary this year.
The Mack Pioneer aims to be one of the most efficient and technologically advanced big rigs on the highway. Think of the Volvo VNL and the Mack Pioneer related in a similar way to how the Chevrolet Silverado is related to the GMC Sierra pickup trucks. A lot of the chassis, powertrain, and electronics are very similar. However, Mack offers more power from their version of the 13-liter turbo-diesel engine (up to 515 horsepower). Mack Trucks says that the latest powertrain in the Pioneer is approximately 11% more efficient than in their current Anthem big rigs. By the way, the next generation of the Anthem is coming at a later date.
The Mack Pioneer has distinct fenders, headlamp shape, and body lines up front. The interior is appointed in a unique way. There is a Bulldog hood ornament up front, and this is the most aerodynamic version of the Bulldog.
The Pioneer is loaded with the latest driver-assistance technology. It has adaptive cruise control with predictive feature. The truck’s computer can learn a particular route (or one can be preloaded). The cruise control will know and prepare for elevations changes, uphills, downhill, or sharper curves ahead of time. If you are approaching a long climb, the system can help gain a bit more momentum up the mountain. All new pickup trucks should have a feature like this.
There are several suspension options, and I drive the premium system with eight air bags in the rear. This system helps to control axle hop and vehicle sway. I did not get a chance to experience at highway speeds with a heavy trailer, so we will have to wait for this opportunity.
Please join me in the video to see all of the latest features.
