Kenworth unveils C580 extreme-duty truck, successor to the C500
Kenworth has introduced the all-new Kenworth C580 at CONEXPO-CON/AGG in Las Vegas, unveiling the next generation of its extreme-duty vocational platform. The C580 replaces the long-running Kenworth C500 and is engineered for demanding severe-service and off-highway applications.
Production of the C580 is scheduled to begin in January 2027, with the C500 concluding production in 2026.
“The Kenworth C580 marks a new era in extreme-duty performance, capable of hauling a gross combination weight of up to one million pounds,” said Kevin Haygood, Kenworth’s assistant general manager for sales and marketing. “For more than 50 years, the C500 set the benchmark in severe-service applications around the world, operating in conditions and applications no other commercially available truck can. With the C580, we honor that legacy while delivering a more capable and technologically advanced truck that meets the expectations of today’s vocational customers.”
Built for extreme applications
Since its introduction in 1972, the C500 established itself in mining, oilfield operations, logging, heavy equipment transport, and prime mover applications across the globe. The C580 continues that focus, targeting extreme loads, harsh terrain, and continuous-duty cycles.
“These trucks have been to the Arctic in the oilfields; in Borneo hauling logs and coal; in Asia transporting massive mining equipment; and deep in the Amazon hauling transformers,” said Haygood. “They’ve gone where no other truck could go, and now the new C580 will do the same, handling the most demanding jobs on and off the road.”
The C580 is available in single- or twin-steer axle configurations, with front-drive axle options supporting 4x4, 6x6, 8x8, and 10x10 setups. Twin steer axle ratings reach up to 44,000 lbs., while tandem rear axles are rated up to 165,000 lbs.
In North America, the truck is powered by EPA-compliant Cummins X15 engines rated up to 605 horsepower and 2,050 lb.-ft. of torque. Euro-compliant X15 ratings are available for export markets. Transmission options include manual gearboxes, Allison 4000 and 6000 Series automatics, and the Eaton Endurant XD Pro automated transmission—marking the first availability of this transmission in the extreme-duty segment.
A 1,780-square-inch cooling module supports high-horsepower operation in stationary, high-altitude, and extreme-heat environments. Full-length parent frame rails extend to the front of the chassis and support FEPTO capability for specialized applications. Dual 13-inch cowl-mounted ERA air cleaners are standard.
Modernized cab
While engineered for severe-service environments, the C580 incorporates Kenworth’s latest cab platform, offering improved visibility, a larger windshield, optimized hood slope, and increased interior space compared to the C500.
A customizable 15" digital display provides clear access to gauges and critical vehicle information. Heated LED headlamps come standard.
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and Kenworth’s TruckTech+ Remote Diagnostics platform are available to enhance safety and provide real-time vehicle health insights for fleets.
Durability and integration
The C580 features abrasion-resistant, double-wrapped exterior wiring harnesses, sheet metal hood and fenders, and reinforced five-piece crossmembers. Improved serviceability and component access support easier body installations and maintenance.
Common electrical architecture shared with other Kenworth vocational models allows for integration of PTOs, auxiliary lighting, remote throttle controls, and other body-specific functions.