Kenworth has recently made history by launching the industry’s first vocational Class 8 battery-electric truck, the Kenworth T880E. This groundbreaking move by PACCAR Kenworth highlights the significant progress made in the electric vehicle market since the unveiling of the Tesla Semi nearly a decade ago.
Back in November of 2017, when Tesla introduced its all-electric Semi truck, the idea of battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) in the commercial trucking industry was still a distant dream. Fast forward to the present day, and the Tesla Semi is yet to enter regular production, while PACCAR is forging ahead with its second generation of Heavy-Duty Electric Vehicles (HDEVs) with the launch of the Kenworth T880E.
Kevin Haygood, Kenworth’s assistant general manager for sales and marketing, emphasized the milestone that the T880E represents for the company. This Class 8 electric truck is designed to meet the evolving needs of operators and vocational fleets while maintaining the durability, reliability, and customization that Kenworth customers expect.
The T880E is powered by PACCAR’s ePowertrain platform, delivering up to 605 horsepower and 1,850 lb-ft of peak torque. Despite its electric drivetrain, the T880E offers the same level of drivability and dependability as its diesel counterparts. In addition to its impressive power output, the T880E boasts a range of features that make it ideal for vocational applications.
One of the key highlights of the T880E is its central drive eMotor, which allows for significant wheelbase flexibility, enabling fleet buyers to customize the truck according to their specific requirements. The T880E also supports lift axle installations from trusted Kenworth upfitters, further enhancing its vocational capabilities.
Moreover, the T880E comes with a wide range of factory-installed options, including high- and low-voltage electric Power Take Off (ePTO) ports, mechanical ePTOs, and various body configurations. The truck is available in both set-back front axle and set-forward front axle configurations, with the same multi-piece hood construction as the internal combustion engine (ICE) version.
Inside the cab, the T880E features the latest driver-focused technology, such as the Kenworth SmartWheel and a 15″ DriverConnect digital touchscreen. Additional dash and vocational features, including RAM Mounts and factory-installed PTO switches, are also available. Customers can opt for Kenworth Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) packages, which include DigitalVision Mirrors, Bendix Fusion, and Lane Keeping Assist.
The Kenworth T880E made its debut at the recent ACT Expo in Anaheim, California, and interested buyers are advised to contact their local Kenworth dealer for availability. This pioneering Class 8 battery-electric truck represents a significant step forward in the transition towards sustainable transportation solutions in the commercial trucking industry.
