Kenworth K270E, K370E BEVs Available for Order

Kenworth announced that its zero-emission Class 6 Kenworth K270E and Class 7 K370E battery electric vehicles (BEVs) are now available for order from Kenworth dealers in the United States and Canada.

“Kenworth is committed to provide advanced vehicle technologies, and the medium duty K270E and K370E electric trucks are a major step forward,” said 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.”

The electric powertrain is available with high-density 141 kWh and 282 kWh battery packs that deliver up to 100 and 200-mile range, respectively, the company said. The Kenworth electric vehicles utilize a dc fast-charging system capable of fast recharge in as little as one hour, which makes them ideal for local pickup and delivery, as well as short regional haul operations, Kenworth said. End-of-shift and overnight ac charging also is offered.

Kenworth and Dana Inc. are collaborating on the Kenworth K270E and K370E electric vehicles. The trucks incorporate two Dana TM4 direct-drive motors rated 355 hp and 469 hp, depending on the application. This highly efficient design, Kenworth said, provides enough torque to start the load from a stop on a 20% grade and the power to maintain 40 mph on a 6% grade while fully loaded. Regenerative braking in stop-and-go city conditions recharges the batteries and extends brake life.

The system configuration also optimizes weight distribution with the lithium iron phosphate batteries mounted outside and air tanks mounted inside the frame rails. All of the components necessary to run the e-powertrain, as well as HVAC and e-PTO, are located in one Dana-designed cradle under the cab, occupying the space typically occupied by a diesel engine.

The K270E and K370E are available with wheelbases of 206 in. (24 ft. box bodies), 218 in. (26 ft. 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. Initial customer deliveries are expected to begin by the end of the year.