October 2020- Kenworth announced the launch of the Kenworth T680E, which is their first-ever Class 8 battery-electric model in its 97-year history! The Kenworth T680E is now available for order from Kenworth dealers in the United States and Canada. Production starts in 2021.

Designed for pickup and delivery applications, the T680E is initially available as a day cab (either a tractor or straight truck in a 6×4 axle configuration). The new model comes available at 54,000 lb. and 82,000 lb. gross vehicle weight ratings (GVWR).

Meritor Blue Horizon 14Xe™ Tandem Electric Powertrain

Meritor Blue Horizon 14Xe™ Tandem Electric PowertrainKenworth and Meritor have partnered on 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 2-speed integrated transmission and has a top speed of 70 mph.

The Kenworth T680E is equipped with 536 hp continuous power and up to 670 hp peak power with 1,623 lb-ft of torque. Meritor’s high/low voltage power electronics (provided by TransPower) is in the place of a diesel engine located under the hood.

Depending on the application, the zero-emission Kenworth T680E has an estimated operating range of 150 miles. The T680E uses a CCS1 DC fast charger with a maximum rate of 120 kWh and an estimated 3.3-hour charging time.

“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, GM – Kenworth and PACCAR vice president.

“Kenworth is leading the way in green initiatives and the T680E definitely will be a 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 green program objectives while leveraging the excellent performance, reliability, and cab comfort of our current T680 on-highway flagship model,” said Baney.

 

*ZERO EMISSION VEHICLE NOW AVAILABLE FOR ORDER AND ENTERS PRODUCTION IN 2021