Three star powerhouse

A Mercedes is still a Mercedes. These trucks dominate the Kingdom's roads and preferred by most drivers for its comfort and power. Here are some latest photos as below:

MB 1933 Truck 

MB 1933 Truck side view

Firetrucks and Emergency Vehicles in KSA

I am quite sad that I am still not able to get photos of firetrucks and emergency vehicles used in the Kingdom. But if given the chance, if there is a right time (and an officer kind enough who will let me take photos), hopefully I can snap some photos.

Firetrucks and emergency vehicles used here in KSA majority are from the US (purchased by the Civil Defense and Red Crescent) and are colored neon green so that it can be seen even at night. But some still use Mercedes Benz and other European brand models fitted with ladders and pumps, like this photo below:

from http://www.fire-engine-photos.com

Please visit  www.firetruckmall.com if you want to see more fire trucks that they are selling. Some of them already made its way here in KSA.

Lets hear it for the 'BUS'

Buses are one of the oldest mode of transport since the early days of road travel. Transporting a lot of people from one place to another could be simple to some, but a hard days work for the bus drivers.

I did not take some more photos of buses here in Saudi Arabia, actually they use more small buses here (like Toyota Coaster). Nowadays, they commonly use buses as below:

GMC and International  are one of the most common brands used as buses here in KSA

Ashok Leyland buses are becoming common to transport workers to sites. Frankly speaking, I don't like these buses, it is not comfortable to ride on. And it looks like a box with wheels. Due to its cheap price, some companies buy this.

TATA buses like the ones on the photo are also used commonly. Like the Ashok Leyland, they are cheap and look less attractive. But for transporting workers to the site and back, it does the job.

Difference between European, American, and Japanese Trucks

I have been working in the Middle East for about 6 years, and I always see big rigs pass by on the roads every day. They carry important goods like food, materials, even a whole gas plant!

But in my mind, there is this question, which are the best truck manufacturers? Are European models better looking and has good performance? Are American trucks have more power to get the job done? How about Japanese ones, are they more affordable and easy to operate? Let us discuss each of them:

European Trucks - Yes I have seen a lot of them. And probably all of you who have been in the Middle East. The famous three star logo, Mercedes Benz have been around passing through long highways since the early days up to now. Other brands like Volvo, Scania, Iveco, and many others are penetrating the markets also.

In my own opinion, the reason why lots of truck companies prefer European trucks is its performance and benefit to the drivers. They think and as per their experience, these trucks are good to drive especially on long distances. Driving comfort is very important to avoid stress that causes serious accidents on the highways.

American Trucks - I have seen some Mack trucks on the road and quite impressed with its bullish design. GMC's are also here but they are famous on buses (actually school buses, used for transport of workers). Other brands like International are also here. Maybe I missed some other brands here please do tell me.

American trucks are known for its raw power, they get the job done. They are tough and reliable. That is why they are preferred mostly in petrochemical companies where they are used and abused.

Japanese Trucks - I have seen a lot of Nissan, Mitsubishi, and Isuzu, Hino here. Good looking trucks indeed.

In the early days, Japanese trucks have been used on some light jobs because they cannot withstand the heavy workload on some work areas especially on petrochemical companies. But that has changed now and there is a presence of Japanese trucks plying on the roads right now. they are much cheaper too - just imagine - two Japanese trucks for the price of one European or American Truck (at present market conditions, maybe their prices are already high).

Whatever manufacturer you choose, choose the one that will fit on your budget and requirements.

Scania 360 water tanker

New Trucks photos - sorry for not updating

Nice Red MB Truck with a super sucker trailer

Mitsubishi trucks, new models probably

Here are some new truck photos, sorry I didn't update for a long time - enjoy. New Mitsubishi trucks are also here too.

Merc Truck

MB Actros - front and center

Mercedes Benz Garbage truck

We all love Mercs. Its a symbol of prestige and safety.
On the pic below, it is more of a utilitarian, a simple but helpful beast that takes all the garbage easily. Color is unique too.

The driver gave me a thumbs up on taking this picture. I don't mind the bad smell, seeing their smile is okay for me.