Glider trucks have a history dating back to the early 2000s, when emissions regulations for heavy-duty trucks were first introduced in the United States. These regulations required that new trucks be equipped with advanced emissions controls and technologies, which made them more expensive and complex than older trucks.

To address this issue, some truck manufacturers began selling glider kits, which were essentially new truck frames with refurbished or reused engines, transmissions, and other components. By using older or refurbished components, glider kits could be sold at a lower cost than new trucks, while still meeting emissions regulations.

Glider trucks became popular with some truck buyers who were looking for a more affordable alternative to new trucks, or who preferred the simplicity and reliability of older technology. However, in recent years, regulations around glider trucks have become stricter, and some experts have raised concerns about their impact on emissions and air quality.

Despite these concerns, glider trucks remain in use today, and are still a popular option for some truck buyers.