Class 6 Trucks Market Size - By Fuel (Diesel, Natural Gas, Hybrid Electric), By Application (Freight Delivery, Utility Services, Construction & Mining), By Body Type (Box, Dump, Beverage), By Horsepower, By Axle & Forecast 2024 - 2032

Class 6 Trucks Market Size

Class 6 Trucks Market size was valued at USD 16.1 billion in 2023 and is estimated to register a CAGR of over 7% between 2024 and 2032. The surge in online shopping and e-commerce is driving market growth. E-commerce relies on effective delivery networks to transport goods from warehouses to customers. Class 6 trucks are suited for this application as they are larger than cargo vans but smaller than semi-trucks, allowing them to maneuver in metropolitan areas and through congested streets for final-mile delivery.
 

E-commerce often requires frequent deliveries over shorter distances, which corresponds to the normal routes of class 6 trucks. They can carry a wide range of cargo sizes and weights, making them flexible to the different requirements of online businesses. Their capacity to undertake shorter journeys enables repeated deliveries during the day, fulfilling the demand for faster turnaround times.

The growing urbanization in cities demanding more freight activity is fueling the adoption of class 6 trucks. As cities expand, there is an ongoing demand for building, maintenance, and utility services. Class 6 trucks are suitable for these activities as they can transport building materials to construction sites, carry specialized tools & equipment for utility personnel, and handle tight streets & obstacles in congested urban locations. Unlike bigger class 8 vehicles, class 6 trucks can easily handle narrow streets and tight corners in cities. This makes them excellent for delivery within the city limits.
 

Class 6 trucks outperform larger rigs in terms of fuel efficiency on shorter journeys. This is critical for enterprises operating in cost-constrained metropolitan areas. Many urban enterprises, particularly those in retail, use a just-in-time inventory management system. This means that they retain very little stock on hand and rely on regular delivery to satisfy consumer demands. Class 6 trucks are suited for such frequent deliveries, guaranteeing a smooth supply chain across the city.
 

In January 2024, the United Nations issued its "World Urbanization Prospects 2024" study, which predicts that by 2050, approximately 70% of the world population will live in cities, with urban populations increasing by 2.3 billion over the following 30 years. Rapid urbanization will put strain on infrastructure, housing, and public services in cities across the world and it demands the proper transportation of logistics and goods from one place to another, thereby fueling the demand for the class 6 truck market.
 

The high initial purchase price and ongoing operational costs are major challenges for the market, potentially slowing down its growth. Class 6 trucks can cost between USD 80,000 and USD 200,000 or more, depending on configuration and additional features. This is a significant investment for small and medium-sized firms, the key purchasers in this market category. The high initial cost could discourage potential customers, particularly those starting the trucking profession or trying to increase their fleet.
 

Even after the initial purchase, Class 6 vehicles have continuous operational expenditures, which can affect a company's cash flow. These expenses include gasoline, maintenance, insurance, and driver pay and perks. Many enterprises in the class 6 truck market, particularly those operating in specialist industries or with tight margins, struggle to create a solid profit owing to the high initial cost and recurring expenditures. This may discourage investments in new class 6 trucks, slowing market growth.
 

Class 6 Trucks Market Trends

The class 6 truck industry is witnessing significant technological advancements. The emphasis on sustainability and emissions reduction has been a primary motivator of technological advancements. Electric class 6 trucks provide an appealing alternative to conventional gasoline-powered versions. Electric vehicles, with zero tailpipe emissions, may help businesses comply with environmental rules while also contributing to healthier urban air. This is especially critical for delivery and operations in city centers.
 

Furthermore, electric powertrains have lower operating costs owing to reduced fuel use and maintenance requirements. This results in long-term savings for firms, particularly those operating in cities with possibly higher fuel prices and stricter emissions rules. The combination of electric powertrains and other in-vehicle technology has the potential to significantly boost the class 6 truck industry.
 

In October 2023, Lion Electric manufactured the Lion6, an all-electric class 6 commercial truck. It is designed for efficiency, sustainability, and optimal performance, offering a zero-emission transportation solution. The truck features a cab-forward design, large windshield, which enhances visibility, and exceptional handling, making it suitable for urban routes.
 

It has a top speed of 65 mph, maximum power of 250 kW, and maximum torque of 1,800 ft-lb. The Lion6 has a range of up to 218 miles and a battery capacity of up to 252 kWh. It features a direct-drive transmission, hydraulic or air disc brakes, and a WABCO cabin. The truck has a gross vehicle weight rating of 26,000 lbs. and a wheelbase of 212 inches.
 

Class 6 Trucks Market Analysis

Based on application, the market is divided into freight delivery, utility services, construction & mining, and others. The freight delivery segment dominates the market in 2023 and is projected to exceed USD 11 billion by 2032. Class 6 trucks are larger than medium-duty trucks such as Class 4 and 5, thus they can transport greater loads (up to 26,000 pounds) over longer distances than smaller choices. However, when compared to Class 7 and 8 trucks, they remain comparatively small & nimble.
 

This makes them suited for handling congested city streets, cramped warehouses, and loading docks, which are all significant obstacles in freight transportation. Class 6 vehicles are available in many different forms, including box trucks, flatbeds, and refrigerated units. This adaptability enables freight delivery firms to select the class 6 vehicle that best meets their cargo requirements, such as general items, palletized supplies, or temperature-controlled products. Along with this, class 6 trucks provide a fair blend of cargo capacity and fuel economy. They can carry heavy loads while remaining more fuel-efficient than larger rigs.
 

Based on body type, the class 6 trucks market is categorized into box, dump, beverage, and others. The box segment held a major market share of around 46% in 2023. Box trucks have a large, enclosed cargo compartment, making them adaptable for a variety of commodities and deliveries. They may be easily adapted with storage, partitions, and refrigeration units to meet individual cargo requirements, ranging from dry items and furniture to temperature-controlled delivery. The covered box ensures cargo security by shielding it from weather, theft, and damage during transportation.
 

This is critical for organizations shipping costly items or supplies that require tamper-proof handling. Box trucks are more aerodynamically designed than dump trucks or flatbeds. This can result in increased fuel economy, which is a considerable advantage for class 6 vehicles that are frequently utilized for short-distance deliveries. Furthermore, class 6 box trucks are easier to maneuver than bigger trailers owing to their size and construction. This is critical for handling congested city streets, tight corners, and loading docks, which are all frequent circumstances for class 6 truck operations.
 

Asia Pacific dominated the global class 6 trucks market with a share of over 48% in 2023. The region is undergoing major e-commerce growth, resulting in a high demand for last-mile delivery services. Class 6 trucks, with their mobility and efficiency, are suited for making these deliveries across cities. Many Asian Pacific countries are seeing economic growth and expansion in their industrial sectors. This results into increasing freight movement, necessitating efficient and dependable transportation solutions. Class 6 trucks can be useful for short-haul deliveries inside production hubs as well as the distribution of completed goods.
 

The largest markets for class 6 trucks in the U.S. are cantered in locations with significant population density and substantial economic activity. These locations are hotspots for e-commerce, retail, and numerous businesses that rely on effective freight transportation networks. The rise of these industries has led to the need for class 6 trucks for last-mile deliveries and urban transportation demands. Manufacturers in the U.S. are offering a wide range of class 6 vehicles tailored to meet specific industry needs. Additionally, the focus on technological advancements and stringent safety regulations will contribute to the regional market dominance.
 

European countries, including France, Germany, the UK, and the Netherlands, are witnessing significant growth in the market. Europe has a well-developed network of highways and roads that enable efficient freight transit. This solid infrastructure benefits the class 6 truck market, which is well-suited for shorter-distance hauls.
 

In addition, the European Union has set high emissions reduction objectives for the transportation sector. This is increasing the demand for cleaner & more efficient class 6 trucks, which may benefit manufacturers that provide electric or alternative fuel choices. Moreover, countries in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region, such as the UAE and Saudi Arabia, are experiencing a rise in infrastructure development, propelling the demand for class 6 trucks for transportation and logistics.
 

Class 6 Trucks Market Share

Ford Motor Company and Freightliner hold a significant market share of over 45% in the class 6 trucks industry. Volvo Trucks provides flexibility and customization capabilities for its class 6 trucks, enabling fleet operators to personalize vehicles according to their unique requirements, applications, and working conditions by selecting from a range of body configurations, upfitting choices, and vocational packages.
 

Traton Group incorporates cutting-edge technologies, telematics systems, and connectivity solutions into its class 6 trucks, providing fleet operators with valuable real-time data, predictive maintenance features, and remote diagnostics capabilities to enhance fleet management and operational effectiveness.
 

Class 6 Trucks Market Companies

Major companies operating in the class 6 trucks industry are:

• Ford Motor Company
• Freightliner
• Hino Trucks
• Isuzu Commercial Truck of America
• Kenworth
• Mack Trucks
• Mitsubishi Fuso Truck of America
• Navistar International Truck
• Peterbilt
   

Class 6 Trucks Industry News

• In October 2023, Penske Truck Leasing added Xos, Inc. battery-electric trucks to its fleet, specifically the Xos Stepvan, a class 6 vehicle purpose-built for commercial applications. The Xos Stepvan can travel up to 150 miles on a single charge, features a GVWR of up to 23,000 pounds, and is available in body sizes of 16’ or 18’. Penske will deploy the trucks with multiple customers in various industries, highlighting the company's commitment to expanding its electric vehicle offerings and supporting sustainable transportation solutions.
   
• In August 2023, TFI International, a transportation and logistics company, agreed to acquire JHT Holdings, an asset-light logistics and transportation provider in North America for class 6-8 truck manufacturers. The acquisition is expected to generate annual revenues of more than USD 500 million and JHT's operating margins are consistent with TFI International's Logistics segment.
   

The Class 6 trucks market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry, with estimates & forecast in terms of revenue (USD Million) and volume (units) from 2021 to 2032, for the following segments:

Click here to Buy Section of this Report

Market, By Fuel

• Diesel
• Natural gas
• Hybrid electric
• Others

Market, By Application

• Freight delivery
  • Diesel
  • Natural gas
  • Hybrid electric
  • Others
• Utility services
  • Diesel
  • Natural gas
  • Hybrid electric
  • Others
• Construction & mining
  • Diesel
  • Natural gas
  • Hybrid electric
  • Others
• Others
  • Diesel
  • Natural gas
  • Hybrid electric
  • Others

Market, By Body Type

• Box
• Dump
• Beverage
• Others

Market, By Horsepower

• 200 HP to 300 HP
• 300 HP to 400 HP

Market, By Axle

• 4X2
• 6X4
• 6X6

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe
  • UK
  • Germany
  • France
  • Russia
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • India
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • ANZ
  • Southeast Asia
  • Rest of Asia Pacific 
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Argentina
  • Rest of Latin America
• MEA
  • UAE
  • South Africa
  • Saudi Arabia
  • Rest of MEA