charm of the Hawkeye State
ENVIRONMENT
Introducing
Located in the upper Midwestern region of the United States, Iowa forms a bridge between the forests of the east and the grasslands of the prairie plains to the west. Also known as 'The Hawkeye State', Iowa invites truckers to explore its road networks, cities and local industries.
ENVIRONMENT
Fields & Prairies
Located in the upper Midwestern region of the USA, Iowa forms a bridge between the forests of the east and the grasslands of the prairie plains to the west. Saimon, the DLC's map lead, shared his thoughts on the state's nature from the research trip he and his team took in 2023. "The first thing that caught our attention were the expansive hills with terraced fields, picturesque farms with round silos, and countless wind turbines on the horizon."
INDUSTRY
Ethanol Plant
Did you know that Iowa is the largest producer of ethanol in the United States, making around 4.5 billion gallons each year? That’s nearly a quarter of all the ethanol produced in the country! So, what is ethanol used for? A lot more than you might realize, including solvents, perfumes, toiletries, disinfectants, preservatives, and polishes. It’s also used in the manufacturing of plastics, rubber, and pharmaceuticals, and it is increasingly being used as a biofuel.
INDUSTRY
Agriculture
Farming is a big part of life in Iowa, with nearly 90,000 farms across the state, and more than 85 percent of its land being farmed. Iowa is also ranked number one in the USA in corn, pigs, and egg production. But that is not all, as local farmers also focus on a wide range of other produce, such as soybeans, oatmeal, cattle, and more.
INDUSTRY
River Ports
We're back on the road in lowa to bring you another look at our upcoming lowa DLC for American Truck Simulator. This time, we're focusing on a key industry rooted in the state's waterways: river ports, which have long served as gateways for trade, transport, and industry.
CITIES
Settlements
More than 15 settlements have been created for the Iowa DLC, and in this blog, we will present the first half of them. Each settlement features its own landmarks, unique charm, and opportunities for drivers to refuel or take a much-needed break. Our talented map, art, and asset teams have carefully recreated each location to capture the essence of its real-life counterpart.
CITIES
Settlements #2
As we mentioned previously, more than 15 settlements have been created for the Iowa DLC. Each one features its own landmarks, unique charm, and opportunities for drivers to refuel or take a much-needed break. Our talented map, art, and asset teams have carefully recreated each location to capture the essence of its real-life counterpart.
CITIES
Cedar Rapids
The second largest city of the Hawkeye State, situated along the scenic banks of the Cedar River - a tributary of the Iowa River - is a vibrant hub of arts and culture with a great theater, live music, and museums. Truckers can soak in Cedar Rapids' history through its striking architecture. With dynamic urban renewal efforts and plenty of eye-catching public art on every corner, the city offers a blend of beautiful architecture and progressive energy.
CITIES
Davenport
This city is part of the Quad Cities, a complex of cities at the Iowa-Illinois border which actually includes five metropolitan hubs, Rock Island, Davenport, Moline, East Moline, Illinois, and Bettendorf, Iowa. This area is the only place where the Mighty Mississippi runs east to west. With the release of the Hawkeye State, you will be able to visit the Iowa part of the Quad Cities, but you can also look forward to trucking to the rest of this complex when Illinois DLC releases.
CITIES
Des Moines
Des Moines sits at the confluence of the Des Moines and Raccoon Rivers. It began as a fort in the mid-19th century, but the community grew quickly and was officially incorporated as a city. In 1857, it took over from Iowa City as the state capital. From those early beginnings, Des Moines has grown into a major city with a population of over 214,000 residents.
ROAD NETWORK
Truck Stops
We're happy to share that the Iowa DLC will feature over 20 truck stops! Ranging from smaller roadside stations to huge gas stops that are the size of a small town, our team has taken great care in recreating the atmosphere and layout of these truck stops.
ROAD NETWORK
Road Network
First stop, near Iowa City, drivers will encounter the recently constructed interstate 80 interchange, a significant infrastructure project completed in 2024. This modern junction features innovative design elements, including distinctive bridges and pillars, that enhance both functionality and aesthetic appeal. It features colourful vegetation, improved traffic flow for exit 242, and a uniquely designed matching road and pedestrian bridge.
ROAD NETWORK
Road Network #2
As many of you are likely familiar with them, weigh stations are a common sight across the U.S., and Iowa is no exception! These checkpoints ensure that a cargo meets legal weight limits, helping to prevent road damage and verifying that truckers have the correct paperwork. You’ll come across weigh stations both large and small in Iowa, so be sure to pull in when required.
ROAD NETWORK
BIG in Iowa
Drivers ready to take on the challenge will find 3 new Special Transport jobs in the Hawkeye State, each of which have been carefully planned ahead with escort vehicles and local police enforcement ensuring a smooth delivery. Even with the extra help and clear roads, completing these job contracts will require careful driving and full attention to the road, especially when manoeuvring around built-up areas.
MEDIA AND PRESS
EXPANSION DESCRIPTION
Set out on an epic journey to Iowa in American Truck Simulator! Get behind the wheel and traverse the I-80 to the state capital, Des Moines, as well as other cities along the Mississippi River. Along the way, you'll pass through picturesque rural towns, and quaint hills intertwined with winding rivers that add to the charm of the Hawkeye State.
Iowa, also known as the Corn State, is the heart of America's agricultural industry, being the largest producer of corn. As a trucker, you'll play a crucial role in transporting this vital produce across the nation. While on the road, you'll also encounter the iconic wind farms that define Iowa's skyline.
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map expansion, please feel free to contact us anytime
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SIMULATOR: IOWA PRESS KIT PAGE
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