In August of 1980, the first Peterbilt truck to be manufactured in Denton, Texas – a white Model 359 – rolled off the line.

In the 25 years since, as the manufacturing facility celebrates its silver anniversary, more than 238,000 trucks have followed.
“The tools and technologies used to build the trucks, the logistics, the capacity and efficiency, have all dramatically improved through the years,” says Dan Sobic, Peterbilt general manager and Paccar vice president. “And these will continue to change and improve in the years ahead. What remains constant is the dedication and craftsmanship of the employees, the pride and quality that goes into every vehicle.”
When the Denton plant first opened for business, it focused on producing one model, the Model 359, at an average of 15 units monthly. Today, all seven of the company’s heavy-duty truck models are manufactured at the facility and production capacity far exceeds its original volume.
Among the more significant changes to the assembly process in recent years, according to Dana Edwards, assistant general manager of operations, are robotics, networked torque tools and real-time manufacturing information systems. All of these enhancements have helped improve product quality and manufacturing efficiencies, raising overall customer satisfaction.
In recognition of the anniversary, Peterbilt held a celebration to honor Denton plant employees both past and present. About 2,000 people were in attendance, including members of the original 81-person start-up team. Of the original team, 25 continue to be employed by the company or Paccar Inc., Peterbilt’s parent company.
Sobic addressed the crowd, reviewing historic milestones in the plant’s history, including the many different truck models that have rolled off the assembly lines. He called attention to one truck in particular, the first one ever produced at the facility, which was on display near the stage.
The following day featured an open house and picnic that was attended by more than 5,000 employees and guests. Among the many attractions were Peterbilt customers’ custom trucks, employees’ custom cars and motorcycles, games, music, truck rides and tours of the plant for children and spouses.