Driving

What Makes a Truck Ideal for Surviving a Zombie Apocalypse?

Barrett Baker
Published: October 23, 2024 Edited: October 15, 2025
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What Makes a Truck Ideal for Surviving a Zombie Apocalypse?

There is a notion—made popular by movies such as Dawn of the Dead and Night of the Living Dead—that a mysterious neurotoxin will somehow infect part of the human population. Can such a scenario be plausible? According to scientists, no. Zombies, as portrayed in popular motion pictures, would not have the proper metabolic processes to function or perform tasks.

Keeping with the spooky season theme, Commercial Truck Trader wondered what the best vehicles might be to have on hand if a zombie apocalypse actually happened. Read on to see what features are most important during such an event. Plus, we’re sharing a few of our make and model recommendations.

Compare new and used Light Duty Flatbed trucks for sale online.

Durability and Power

First, you’d want something that provides superior durability, especially when off-roading, in case you come under attack. You’d also want a vehicle with enough space to store provisions. Two highly dependable options are the Ford F-150 Raptor or the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2. The Raptor is designed for off-roading and offers a powerful 450-horsepower engine to handle tough situations. The ZR2, with its raised suspension and large tires, provides smooth off-roading, along with a 2.8-liter Duramax turbodiesel engine for superior power and fuel efficiency. Add a bed cap for safeguarding valuables and a place to sleep.

Fuel Economy and Passenger Capacity

Fuel is another consideration. Should you go with gasoline-, diesel-, or electric-powered vehicles? Gasoline will likely be the easiest to find, but diesel offers better mileage and longevity. If power grids remain intact, electric is a great option. If you plan to drive around searching for other survivors, consider cargo vans that can haul several people. Great choices include:

  •  Ford Transit
  • Mercedes-Benz eSprinter
  • Ram ProMaster EV
  • Chevrolet Express
  • GMC Savana.

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Ability for Long Hauling

Planning to haul goods to people pinned down by zombie attacks? A sleeper cab semi is ideal. It provides powerful hauling capabilities, keeps you raised off the ground to avoid zombie attacks, and offers a secure place to rest. We’d recommend the Peterbilt 579, but you could also consider these other reliable models:

  • Volvo VNL 860
  • International Lonestar
  • Kenworth Cascadia

Smashing Capabilities

If you plan on smashing through obstacles like roadblocks or zombie encampments, a dump truck is your best bet. It offers both height and power. Check out manufacturers like Caterpillar, Kenworth, Komatsu, and Volvo. For transporting your dump truck, consider getting a flatbed trailer to attach to your semi rig.

Even if the likelihood of a zombie apocalypse is extremely rare, you can find a wide variety of new and used trucks and trailers on Commercial Truck Trader. We offer one of the largest online selections, with great search options to help you quickly find what you need.

And while saving the world from zombies might be more fun, these trucks and trailers can also help make your business more efficient. Maybe you can use your earnings to buy an island—rumor has it zombies can’t swim.

Barrett Baker's profile picture Barrett Baker
Barrett Baker is a freelance writer with more than 40 years of writing experience. He has worked with the U.S. Department of Energy, Ford Motor Company, General Motors, and a variety of advertising and marketing firms throughout his career. In his spare time, he enjoys photography, cooking, and working with animal rescues.