Kenworth supercharges electric portfolio with next-gen T680E and new T880E

The T880E truck is driven by the Paccar-developed ePowertrain platform, providing between 365-470 hp continuous power and up to 605 hp peak with 1,850 lb.-ft. of torque, according to the company. It also offers four battery-string options for a customizable range from 100 up to over 250 miles, as well as various wheelbase and vehicle configurations, including lift axle installations.

“The Kenworth T880E marks a groundbreaking milestone in Kenworth’s history as we bring to market the first Class 8 battery-electric solution built for vocational applications,” said Kevin Haygood, Kenworth’s assistant general manager for sales and marketing. “The T880E is engineered to meet the evolving needs of operators and vocational fleets while still providing the durability, reliability, and customization our customers expect.”

The largest battery configuration offers 625 kWh of energy storage, 250+ miles of range, and up to 82,000-lb. gross vehicle weight ratings (GVWR). The vehicle charges with a CCS1 DC charge port with a 350 kW peak charge rate, and can charge up to 90% in roughly two hours. Additionally, the truck will feature factory-installed options for high and low-voltage ePTO ports, a mechanical ePTO, or body configurations that work with aftermarket body upfitters.

On a more granular level, the T880E can come in set-back front axle or set-forward front axle configurations, both with the multi-piece hood construction that comes with the T880. The interior includes the Kenworth SmartWheel, and a new 15” DriverConnect digital touchscreen. RAM Mounts and factory-installed PTO switches are options as well, as are trucks with the Kenworth ADAS packages including DigitalVision Mirrors, Bendix Fusion, and Lane Keeping Assist.

Next-gen T680E

Meanwhile, the updated T680E includes a brand-new Paccar-integrated ePowertrain system as well, offering the same continuous power, hp, and torque as the T880E. The truck’s new features include a central drive eMotor and updated vehicle architecture for increased battery capacity, charging speeds, wheelbase flexibility, and drivability.

“Our engineering team has worked diligently over the past several years to develop a Paccar-integrated battery-electric platform from the ground up,” Haygood added. “This strategic approach enables us to provide a truck and a powertrain for every job that effectively meet customer needs based on range, performance, reliability, and ease of service.”

The new T680E offers three battery-string configurations, with the largest providing a 500 kWh battery pack, 200+ miles of range, and up to an 82,000-lb. GVWR. It also uses a CCS1 DC fast charger and can reach up to 90% in about two hours, but the truck is designed for short- and regional-haul, LTL, and drayage operations instead of long-haul work. As a result, the new T680E is available as a day cab as either a tractor or straight truck in a 6x4 axle configuration.

“This move to a fully integrated and ground-up Paccar design means we were able to design for enhanced serviceability, providing easier access to the Master Service Disconnects for improved safety and increased uptime and allowing the use of the DAVIE service tool for troubleshooting and diagnostics,” said Joe Adams, Kenworth’s chief engineer.

Meanwhile, the exterior redesign includes aerodynamic refinements and standard LED headlights with blue accents, while inside the cab, there’s an upgraded digital interface (15” digital touchscreen with DriverConnect) that displays range, regenerative braking, and performance insights. Finally, the new T680E can also come with Kenworth ADAS packages.