“Kenworth is committed to provide advanced vehicle technologies, and the medium-duty K270E and K370E electric trucks are a major step forward,” says Kevin Baney, Kenworth general manager and PACCAR vice president.
“Our popular and proven cabover platform now offers fully integrated, state-of-the-art electric powertrains combined with exceptional visibility and superior maneuverability,” Baney says.
The electric powertrain is available with high-density battery packs of 141kWh and 282kWh that deliver up to 100 and 200-mile range, respectively, with zero emissions.
The Kenworth electric vehicles utilize a DC fast-charging system capable of fast re-charge in as quick as one-hour, which make the Kenworth K270E and K370E cabovers ideal for local pickup and delivery, as well as short regional haul operations. End-of-shift and overnight AC charging also is offered, Kenworth says.
Kenworth battery-electric vehicles offer two direct-drive motors rated at 355 hp and 469 hp, depending on the application. This highly efficient design provides enough torque to start the load from a stop on a 20 percent grade and the power to maintain 40 mph on a 6 percent grade while fully loaded, the company says. Regenerative braking in stop-and-go city conditions recharges the batteries and extends brake life.
All of the components necessary to run the e-powertrain, as well as HVAC and e-PTO, are located in one power cradle under the cab — the space typically occupied by a diesel engine.
The system configuration also optimizes weight distribution with batteries mounted outside and air tanks mounted inside the frame rails. A quiet e-compressor maintains pressure in the air system, Kenworth says.
Kenworth and Dana Inc. are collaborating on the Kenworth K270E and K370E electric vehicles. Dana is a provider of electrified modules and systems supported by in-house vehicle integration expertise.
Available wheelbases offered are 206 in. (24-ft. box bodies), 218 in. (26-t. box bodies) and 274 in. (30-ft. box bodies).
Kenworth dealers will use the new Kenworth PremierSpec sales tool to help customers specify and configure their Kenworth medium-duty electric trucks.
