Trucking Efficiency Roundup: Mercedes-Benz, Volvo, Kenworth expand electric truck portfolios for heavy- and medium-duty trucks
Key takeaways
- Mercedes-Benz, Volvo, and Kenworth expand BEV offerings to meet growing fleet demand for medium- and heavy-duty electric trucks.
- New electric trucks provide flexible battery, range, and configuration options for urban, regional, and vocational operations.
- Expanded EV portfolios help fleets reduce emissions while maintaining performance, efficiency, and driver-focused features.
Kenworth expands battery-electric lineup with T280E, T380E, and T480E for regional fleets
Kenworth recently launched its first conventional medium-duty battery-electric trucks—the T280E, T380E, and T480E—extending its zero-emission lineup for Class 6-8 applications. These BEVs are designed for pickup and delivery, regional haul, utility, and vocational work. Production is scheduled to begin in 2026.
“The launch of our new medium-duty battery-electric lineup demonstrates Kenworth’s dedication to helping customers transition to zero-emission transportation with practical, powerful, and flexible solutions,” Kevin Haygood, Kenworth’s assistant GM for sales and marketing, said. “The T280E, T380E, and T480E are engineered to deliver the performance and dependability our customers expect from Kenworth while offering the benefits of reduced emissions and quiet operation.”
The trucks use Paccar’s ePowertrain platform with eMotor ratings from 170 kW to 350 kW and battery options offering 250–375 kWh for up to 280 miles of range. Models feature DC fast charging, ePTO ports, and driver-focused technology like the Kenworth SmartWheel and a 15-inch digital display. Kenworth’s medium-duty BEVs provide wheelbase flexibility, vocational-friendly integrations, and the same performance features as their combustion-engine counterparts. Learn more…
Mercedes-Benz Trucks expands eActros 400 production to meet heavy-duty EV demand
Mercedes-Benz Trucks has begun series production of the second-generation eActros 400 at its Wörth plant in Germany, expanding its battery-electric truck portfolio alongside the eActros 600. The new models offer two battery packs, two cab options, and can be configured as tractor units or flatbed chassis to meet the needs of long-distance and distribution transport.
Production of the eActros 400 is fully integrated into the existing Wörth assembly line, allowing electric trucks to be manufactured alongside diesel trucks. Components such as the electric axle, transmission parts, and front box are supplied by Daimler Truck plants in Mannheim, Kassel, and Gaggenau.
The portfolio expansion strengthens Mercedes-Benz Trucks’ leadership position in Europe’s heavy-duty electric truck market and positions the company to meet growing customer demand for flexible electric commercial vehicles. Learn more…
Volvo Trucks adds 15-ton FL Electric for urban and regional deliveries
Volvo Trucks is launching a new 15.4-short-ton version of its FL Electric medium-duty truck, designed specifically for inner-city transport with its compact dimensions and zero tailpipe emissions. The new variant offers tailored battery, wheelbase, and axle configurations to match specific operational needs while maintaining agility for tight city streets outside the U.S.
“This is a perfect inner-city workhorse with no tailpipe emissions," said Jan Hjelmgren, head of product management at Volvo Trucks, said. “We are always there to help our customers find the best electric truck for their business. You should only buy as much battery capacity as you need for the task to maximize the productivity in terms of payload capacity and profitability.”
Production of the 15.4-short-ton Volvo FL Electric will begin in the second half of 2026, joining Volvo’s eight battery-electric truck models, which have sold over 5,000 units globally. The truck offers a range of up to 124 miles, 145 kWh of usable battery energy, and an electric motor delivering 241 hp. This new model further expands Volvo’s portfolio for urban and regional electric transport solutions. Learn more…
