Expanded virtual truck configurator wows users

If you ever imagined what your ideal Mack^® truck would look like, Mack’s new online configurator, Mack Truck Builder (build.macktrucks.com) gives a user-friendly opportunity to bring the dream to the screen. The Truck Builder tool offers customers a broad range of options to customize a truck for both function and appearance.

The recently released tool includes a greatly enhanced field of options over previous iterations, including exterior and interior colors and allows the user to select powertrain, aerodynamics, interior trim, axle and suspension, chassis, wheels and Uptime customer support solutions. Once the user has compiled all of their selections, they can print it as a customized brochure, share the spec with others and even print out an image of the truck to hang on their wall. The customized spec can also be sent directly to a local Mack dealer for additional information and to assist the sales process.

David Galbraith, Mack’s vice president of global brand and marketing, says he’s impressed with the site’s increased functionality and calls it a “game-changer” that’s significantly improved the truck buying experience.

Jamie Hagen, owner of Aberdeen, South Dakota-based Hell Bent Xpress LLC, says back when he was a company driver, he carried around a folded, black and white printout with specs for a dream truck years before he bought his first Mack. Today, he operates 11 Mack Anthems and still likes to imagine different versions.

“We live in a visual world and it’s nice to see a full menu of choices you may not have even known existed,” he says. That’s why, with some thought and research, he designed an aspirational vison of his company’s white Anthems using Truck Builder's wide range of new choices. His final creation was a fleet of light gold Anthems with an Elite interior of steel gray trim. He selected, among the many options, to insert Mack Air seats, premium innerspring bunks, multiple cabinets, microwave prep and extra storage. He chose Bendix Air Disc Brakes, polished aluminum wheels, stainless steel fenders and other details as he built his dream truck.

When he was done creating his glittering golden fleet, Hagen posted it to his robust social media where it was a huge hit among his followers.

“Hey, look what I did!” said Hagen to his Facebook followers when he posted the gold truck and all its specs to his audience. “They loved it, and it’s received a lot of shares and generated tons of comments,” he says.

“Some guys just want to see what I choose to guide them when they are making selections,” he says. Hagan says he had a blast tinkering with Truck Builder and likes the idea that nearly 80% of the choices are already selected before even walking into a dealership.

That’s music to the ears of James Cooke, director, digital and demand generation for Mack, who says it was important that the tool was not only practical, but user-friendly and fun, too. With millions of trucks configured since the launch, the high levels of engagement and the early feedback shows terrific user experience with Truck Builder. Cooke says the tool gives buyers an opportunity to see the many choices available to them before contacting their dealership.

“It allows potential buyers to feel a sense of ownership and to get a better representation of what they are going to select,” Cooke says. “With more than 70% of buyers reporting they do research online before purchasing, this tool appeals to savvy buyers, especially the younger generation.”

Meanwhile, Hagen says the prospect of an all-gold fleet seems enticing, but he also says it’s just his first go around. “I may pick another color and configuration next week,” he says with a laugh.