Kenworth recently introduced its first Class 8 battery-electric model.
The T680E zero-emission tractor now is available to order, the manufacturer said. Production is expected to begin next year.
“The Kenworth T680E launch is an exciting, pioneering moment that builds upon Kenworth’s excellent heritage of providing fleets and truck operators with outstanding and productive trucks driven by quality, innovation and technology,” said Kevin Baney, general manager and PACCAR vice president.
“Kenworth is leading the way in green initiatives and the T680E definitely will be a gamechanger 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.”
The T680E has an estimated operating range of 150 miles, depending on application, Kenworth said. It uses a CCS1 DC fast charger with a maximum rate of 120 kilowatt hours 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 tractor or straight truck in a 6x4 axle configuration. The new model is offered in 54,000- and 82,000-pound gross vehicle weight ratings (GVWRs).
Kenworth and Meritor collaborated on T680E development. The vehicle features Meritor’s Blue Horizon 14Xe tandem electric powertrain with smooth shifting and operation, a 2-speed integrated transmission and a top speed of 70 mph. It’s equipped with 536-horsepower continuous power and up to 670 hp peak power, and 1,623 pound-feet of torque. Meritor’s high/low voltage power electronics—provided by TransPower—replace the diesel engine under the hood.
Visit kenworth.com for more information.
