At the Mid-America Trucking Show, Kenworth Truck announced numerous improvements to its flagship T2000 model. It also showed off its T2000 High Tech Truck concept vehicle.
Now standard on the T2000 is Truck-Lite's new 7-in. round, complex reflector headlamp. The headlamp's complex optical system reduces driver fatigue by increasing the amount and distribution of the light on the road compared to a sealed-beam system, said KW.
A new interior package for the T2000 60-in. Aerodyne model includes additional storage space, a 42-in. liftable bunk, and choice of standard Splendor or optional Diamond VIT trim.
The OEM also said it will launch availability of the ZF Meritor FreedomLine automated mechanical transmission in the T2000. “This two-pedal, automated mechanical system will provide drivers with safer, simpler and more efficient vehicles,” noted Ed Caudill, KW general manager.
KW's High-Tech Truck, based on a 75-in. T2000 Aerodyne sleeper model, “focuses on technologies that may be available as Kenworth production options within a year or less,” said Jim Bechtold, Kenworth chief engineer.
For example, the truck includes Fleetcom 2000, a telematics system using GPS satellite tracking and wireless cellular communications to allow fleets to remotely track the vehicle and its operating conditions over a data link.
Other key technology items include two vision-related systems. The Bendix XVision forward-looking night vision system extends the driver's vision beyond the area illuminated by the headlamps. The Kenworth side-camera vision system displays a wide-angle view of the right-hand side of the vehicle via a miniature video camera mounted to the roof. Images it captures are displayed on a video monitor mounted in the cab below the header.
Kenworth also announced that the Dana Spicer Premium-40 tandem drive axle will become standard on all new Kenworth Class 8 truck orders starting May 1.
The new 40,000-lb. Premium-40 axle, also designated as the DSP 40, was developed for Kenworth by Dana. It will be available exclusively on various PACCAR vehicles until July 1, 2003.
According to KW, the DSP 40 is designed to meet the demand for improved axle performance in conjunction with more powerful engines and higher payloads.
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