The History of the Hess Truck: A Year-by-Year Journey
- Chetwood Johnson
- Nov 13, 2024
- 4 min read
Updated: Nov 14, 2024
Since 1964, Hess Toy Trucks have been a Christmas tradition, capturing hearts with their detailed designs and quality craftsmanship. The trucks were originally designed as affordable yet high-quality toys for kids, and they have since become beloved collector’s items. Let’s dive into the history of the Hess Truck, year by year, to see how this American icon evolved.
• The first Hess Toy Truck was a tanker, designed to replicate Hess’s fuel trucks. It came with working headlights, taillights, and a refillable water tank. Priced at $1.29, it was a hit and set the stage for a holiday tradition.
1965-1967: No New Releases
• Hess decided not to release a new truck until 1967. This gap period actually helped build anticipation, making each subsequent release even more special.
• The 1967 model was similar to the 1964 version but had minor updates. This was the last year Hess produced the original tanker truck design.
• Hess released its first fire truck, featuring an extendable ladder, flashing lights, and a distinctive red and white design. This model introduced a new level of detail to the Hess Toy Truck series.
• This marked the first time Hess released a truck that wasn’t based on a fuel tanker. The Box Trailer included a small race car in the trailer section, introducing the idea of multiple vehicles in one set, a concept that would become popular in later years.
• This was the first truck to come with a more durable plastic body, rather than the die-cast metal used previously, marking a significant change in materials that would be used for future models.
• Hess created a white and green van with a unique shape and a set of working lights. Though simpler than other models, this vehicle added variety to the lineup.
1982: First Hess Tanker Ship
• For the first time, Hess released a tanker ship rather than a truck. This model celebrated Hess’s role in the shipping industry and featured intricate details, including a model of an actual Hess oil tanker.
• The 1986 truck was a tanker that doubled as a coin bank. This was a unique twist, adding a practical function to the toy.
• Hess unveiled an 18-wheeler truck, complete with a small race car inside. This was the first Hess truck to have a more commercial truck appearance, rather than focusing strictly on oil and fuel transportation themes.
• A small-scale police car joined the lineup, featuring a red and white paint job with working lights and a siren sound. This was Hess’s first law enforcement vehicle, adding variety to the collection.
• Celebrating the new millennium, Hess released a truck that carried a helicopter. The helicopter had spinning blades and lights, adding a new dimension to the design.
• Hess revisited the truck-and-helicopter theme, releasing a new design that included a larger helicopter with retractable landing gear and additional lights.
• In celebration of the 50th anniversary, Hess released a special edition featuring a truck and a space cruiser with retractable wings and lights. This commemorative edition was a tribute to the truck’s evolution over half a century.
• Hess introduced a rugged dump truck with a detachable loader. The two-vehicle set marked a return to heavy-duty themes, focusing on construction rather than oil transportation.
• Hess debuted an emergency response theme with an ambulance that had siren sounds, flashing lights, and a smaller rescue unit that fit inside.
• The 2022 model featured a sleek flatbed truck carrying two vintage-style hot rods. This design catered to fans who loved both nostalgia and classic car aesthetics.
• This model marked Hess’s return to law enforcement themes, featuring a police SUV with flashing lights and siren sounds, alongside a smaller ATV unit.
Other Hess Models Available
The Evolution Continues
The Hess Toy Truck has become more than just a toy; it’s a symbol of the holiday season, family tradition, and nostalgia. Each year, the designs adapt to modern trends while staying true to Hess’s dedication to quality and innovation. As new generations eagerly await each Christmas season, the legacy of the Hess Toy Truck remains an enduring part of American holiday tradition.
Can’t wait to start my son in this tradition!