KENWORTH unveiled a new lineup of medium-duty trucks March 23 during the Mid-America Trucking Show in Louisville, Kentucky.
Kenworth introduced the T370 Class 7, T270 Class 6 and T270 hybrid-electric conventional models, and the K260 Class 6 cabover, which joins the K360 Class 7 cabover. The new lineup handles a broad range of diverse applications, including food and beverage distributors, propane and fuel fleets, towing and recovery operators, general construction and landscape firms, and dry, refrigerated, and side-curtain van operations.
“Kenworth's expanded lineup of reliable, durable, and quality trucks provides excellent performance and value for a wide range of medium duty applications,” said Bob Christensen, Kenworth general manager and PACCAR vice-president.
The new T370 Class 7 and T270 Class 6 models incorporate a world-class lighting system, stylish hood, and grille. The models feature new halogen projector low-beam headlamps with 30% more light down the road and three times longer life than sealed beam headlamps. The hood is made of sheet molded composite (SMC) for enhanced fit and finish, while a new hood assist device and 90-degree hood tilt opening offer superior access to the engine compartment for ease of service. A one-piece chrome or painted bumper and new Metton quarter fenders provide additional durability and impact resistance.
The T370 and T270 are available with the PACCAR PX-6 engine rated to 325 horsepower and 750 ft-lb of torque, and with the PACCAR PX-8 engine rated to 330 horsepower and 1,000 ft-lb of torque. Customers can choose manual or automatic transmissions and air or hydraulic brakes.
Inside the cab is an ergonomically-friendly, wrap-around instrument panel with large, easy-to-read, glare-free gauges. Standard features include power door locks, passenger-side electric windows (optional on the driver's side), and DayLite doors with peeper window. Drivers should appreciate the 50-degree wheel cut for excellent maneuverability. The T370 and T270 are scheduled for production this summer.
The Kenworth T270 Class 6 hybrid-electric medium-duty conventional is powered by the new PACCAR PX-6 engine and features an integral transmission-mounted motor/generator, a frame-mounted 340-volt battery pack, and a dedicated power management system. The T270 hybrid operates like a standard diesel vehicle with all power coming from the engine during steady driving conditions above 30 mph, and uses a combination of diesel and electricity below 30 mph. The system automatically switches between the two modes of operation and is seamless to the driver.
The Kenworth K260 Class 6 cabover is for companies in many applications, especially for those that need excellent maneuverability to make tight maneuvers in city conditions.
“The new Kenworth K260 Class 6 cabover offers the latest in world-class styling, durability, maneuverability, ease of service, and technology,” said Christensen. “The K260 also gives companies another Kenworth product choice for the growing Class 6 market where non-CDL drivers are used.”
Both the K260 Class 6 and the K360 Class 7 are based on the DAF LF55, which has received European Truck of the Year honors. European customers cite that model's high-volume payloads through its low chassis weight and clear back of cab as among major reasons for its success.
