LOUISVILLE, KY. Kenworth Truck Co. debuted its new T660 aerodynamic tractor here yesterday at the Mid-America Trucking Show. The 2007-model Class 8 will be powered by EPA ’07-compliant engines. It will replace the Kenworth T600, which came to market 20 years ago as trucking’s first aerodynamic tractor.
“We’re excited to introduce the new Kenworth T660 with modern styling, superior forward-lighting technology, enhanced aerodynamics and fuel economy, advanced technology, and increased driver comfort,” said Bob Christensen, Kenworth gm & Paccar vp. “The new Kenworth T660 is the latest evolution of our quality, aerodynamic product line and reinforces Kenworth’s leadership in fuel economy performance.”
“The new T660 is poised to take over the reins of Kenworth’s aerodynamic leadership pioneered by the T600,” said Mike Dozier, Kenworth chief engineer. The T660 grille is 5% larger to accommodate the increased airflow and cooling performance required by 2007 engines. “Yet, said Dozier, “Kenworth was able to actually achieve a positive increase in aerodynamics and fuel economy. We used computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis extensively to fine-tune the aerodynamic performance of the whole vehicle.”
Other key features of the T660 detailed by Dozier:
Halogen projector low beams that provide 40% more light down the road than a sealed beam lamp and last three times longer. A High Intensity Discharge option provides 75% more light and lasts 11 times longer than sealed beams.
Advanced technology inside includes an enhanced multiplexed electrical instrumentation system, GPS navigation system (standard with the Diamond cab interior and optional on the Splendor interior), and new driver’s display with real-time fuel economy, ignition timer, on-board diagnostics, gear display, vehicle system configuration reporting, and an alarm clock.
New proprietary seats will feature armrests that can be folded away behind the seat, giving occupants an additional four inches of sleeper access between driver and passenger seats.
Kenworth also introduced its new T300 Class 6 (25,000-lb. GVWR) model equipped with air brakes and aimed at P&D and other applications. The Class 6 T300 is available with Cummins ISB and ISC engines and the Caterpillar C7.
Dozier noted that Kenworth will make Bendix ADB22X front and rear air disc brakes available on select Class 8 trucks and tractors. The announcement was made at the Mid-America Trucking Show. “Air disc brakes provide reduced brake wear,” he said. “The Bendix air disc brake’s longer life may help eliminate one steer axle brake reline for many line haul customers. In addition, drivers have found disc brakes on steer axles improve the feel and control of the vehicle during braking.”
In addition, the OEM announced its new Kenworth Clean Power System, a battery-powered climate control system with the capability to provide “engine-off” heating and cooling along with 110v “hotel load” power to truck drivers for a full 10 hours.
For more information, go to www.kenworth.com.
