EazyinWay - Mack Trucks Opens Order Book for Overhauled Anthem Mack Trucks Opens Order Book for Overhauled Anthem

Mack Trucks Opens Order Book for Overhauled Anthem

Published: September 4, 2025
Mack Trucks has launched the order book for its revamped Anthem regional-haul tractor, with production set to begin in January 2025. The Anthem, which was unveiled in June, has been rebranded as a more maneuverable option with a 10% improvement in fuel efficiency and an enhanced cabin designed for comfort. Key features include a reduction in bumper-to-back-of-cab length and a tighter turning radius, making it suited for regional hauls. The truck will incorporate advanced telematics and predictive maintenance features, which Mack claims can significantly reduce downtime.

This new design aims to complement Mack's prior release of the Pioneer, which serves the over-the-road market, and represents an effort to bolster Volvo Group's market share ambitions, targeting a 25% share by 2030. However, despite positive feedback on the Anthem, Mack faced significant declines in orders, reflecting broader industry challenges including economic uncertainty and shifting tariffs impacting cost structures.

In the current market climate, transportation companies are balancing the drive towards new, more efficient vehicles with financial caution amid economic ambiguities. As transportation expert, it is crucial to consider not just the technological advancements these trucks offer but also the overarching market conditions and regulations that influence fleet purchasing decisions. Innovations in diesel efficiency combined with the anticipated rise of electric options will be pivotal in shaping future strategies for freight operators.
In August, North American Class 8 truck net orders reached 13,200, marking a 19% decrease compared to the same month last year, according to ACT Research. Volvo aims to secure a 25% market share by 2030 and reported a 10.2% share of U.S. retail sales for Class 8 trucks in 2024, while Mack captured 6.9%. Despite positive feedback for changes to the Anthem model, orders for both Mack and Volvo declined significantly in the second quarter, with Mack experiencing a 38% drop in orders from the previous year.

This decline in orders can be attributed to uncertainty regarding the economic climate, exacerbated by the fluctuations in tariffs on imports initiated during the Trump administration, which have led to reduced capital investments by carriers. The ongoing debates over emissions regulations and rising costs due to raw material tariffs further complicate the situation for truck manufacturers. Jamie Cook from Truist Securities emphasized that the typical order books opening in September might be delayed if uncertainties related to the EPA's policies and Section 232 tariffs persist, impacting manufacturers' pricing strategies for upcoming trucks.

In the transportation field, it is crucial to recognize the intertwining effects of regulatory changes, economic conditions, and trade policies on the trucking industry. The current uncertainties could lead to a protracted slowdown in new truck purchases, which may hinder fleet modernization and ultimately affect supply chain efficiency. Companies may need to navigate these challenges carefully, leveraging innovation and strategic planning to adapt to evolving market conditions.
Vehicle Guru

Cookies settings

We use cookies on our website.

Some of them are necessary for the functioning of the site, but you can decide about others.