Kenworth delivers industry’s first 15-liter, natural gas-powered truck to UPS

Kenworth recently delivered the first T680 daycab with a 15-liter natural gas engine to UPS.

The Cummins X15N-equipped Kenworth T680 runs on compressed natural gas and is the first of several trucks utilizing the new powerplant that Kenworth is delivering to UPS. The engine produces between 400-500 hp with up to 1,850 lb.-ft. of torque. The first UPS truck has the engine rated at 400 hp with 1,650 lb.-ft. of torque. It’s paired with an Eaton Endurant HD automated transmission and a 175 diesel gallon equivalent fuel delivery system.

Kenworth claims its T680 Next Gen raises the bar for fuel efficiency, performance, and aerodynamic styling, building on the success of its classic T680 model.

See also: Kenworth adds Eaton Cummins Endurant XD series transmission for Mexico fleets

“We’re pleased to lead the way with yet another clean engine option for our customers,” said Kevin Haygood, Kenworth's assistant GM of sales and marketing. “UPS is a long-time customer and a leader when it comes to using alternative fuel vehicles, purchasing their first natural gas trucks from Kenworth 15 years ago.”

The X15N is the first natural gas engine to be specifically designed for heavy-duty truck applications with up to 500-hp output. It will meet upcoming stringent EPA emission requirements and CARB 2024 low NOx standards. Its CO2 and NOx levels are both 90% below current EPA standards, and it features up to a 10% improvement in fuel economy over Cummins’ 12-liter natural gas engine. Kenworth is the first major truck manufacturer to offer an engine that meets CARB’s NOx emission standards. It also provides diesel-like power and performance, making it appealing for regional and long-haul operations. With high horsepower capability, the engine is more capable over challenging terrain.

“We’re thrilled to be the first company to acquire the T680 with the X15N 15-liter natural gas engine,” said Anthony Marshall, UPS’s VP of maintenance and engineering. “This new truck enhances our worldwide fleet of over 18,000 alternative fuel and advanced technology vehicles, which are essential for achieving our target of 40% alternative fuel in our ground operations by 2025 and carbon neutrality by 2050.”