Kenworth in the U.S. has announced the launch of the T680E truck model – the company’s first-ever, Class 8 battery-electric model in its 97-year history. The new zero-emission Kenworth T680E, now available for order from dealers in the United States and Canada, will enter into production in 2021.
Kenworth Showcased the medium-duty K270E electric truck (pictured above) at the CES 2020 Show in Las Vegas earlier this year along with an autonomous version of the T680.
“Kenworth is leading the way in green initiatives and the T680E definitely will be game-changer in the trucking industry. The new Kenworth T680E provides our customers with a true, zero-emissions solution that will help to achieve their own green program objectives, while leveraging the excellent performance, reliability and cab comfort of our current T680 on-highway flagship model,” said Kevin Baney, general manager and PACCAR vice president.
Related reading:
On-sale date revealed for Fuso eCanter
Hyundai heralds hydrogen ambitions
Scania launches new electric and hybrid trucks
The zero-emission Kenworth T680E has an estimated operating range of 150 miles, depending on application. The T680E uses a CCS1 DC fast charger with maximum rate of 120 kWh and estimated 3.3-hour charging time.
Designed for pickup and delivery applications, the T680E is initially available as a day cab as either a prime mover or rigid truck in a 6x4 axle configuration. The new model is offered in 24,500kg and 37,000kg gross vehicle weight ratings (GVWR).
Kenworth and Meritor have closely collaborated on the T680E development. The Class 8 battery-electric vehicle features Meritor’s Blue Horizon 14Xe tandem electric powertrain with smooth shifting and operation. The T680E uses a two-speed integrated transmission and has a top speed of 112 km/h (70 mph).
The Kenworth T680E is equipped with 536hp continuous power and up to 670hp peak power and 2200Nm of torque. Meritor’s high/low voltage power electronics provided by TransPower replace the diesel engine.