Kenworth’s comprehensive environmental program is focused on alternative fuels, hybrid technologies, idle reduction, aerodynamic performance, and driver awareness technologies.
“ High diesel fuel prices and new environmental rules will drive innovative new technologies in the commercial vehicle market,” said Bob Christensen, Kenworth general manager and PACCAR vice president. “Kenworth is recognized as a technology leader and we are introducing practical solutions for these market realities.”
The company’s latest environmental product involves trucks fueled by liquefied natural gas (LNG). Earlier this year, Kenworth announced that it would expand its presence in the growing LNG truck market by beginning production of Kenworth T800 LNG trucks in 2009 at its plant in Renton, Wash.
“A typical LNG truck reduces nitrogen oxide and greenhouse gas emissions by as much as 33 percent and 20 percent, respectively, compared to a diesel-fueled truck,” said Mike Dozier, Kenworth chief engineer. “The Kenworth T800 LNG vehicle also offers outstanding efficiency, horsepower and torque, with a fuel cost of 10 to 15 percent less.”
At the Mid-America Trucking Show this week, Kenworth announced plans to introduce medium duty diesel-electric hybrid trucks into full production this summer. Purchasers of Kenworth hybrids, equipped with a PACCAR PX-6 engine and the Eaton hybrid system, may qualify for a maximum federal tax credit of $6,000 (Class 6) and $12,000 (Class 7). The hybrid fuel economy benefit may be as great as 30 percent.
The Kenworth Clean Power no-idle system, which is fully compliant with California Air Resources Board (CARB) idling regulations, offers as much as an 8 percent fuel economy enhancement for customers with high-idling time. Kenworth Clean Power’s generator-free operation also provides drivers with a quiet rest environment.
The Kenworth T660 is a leader in aerodynamics in the industry and the most aerodynamic model in the company’s 85-year history. The T660 serves fleets and owner-operators in a variety of long haul sleeper applications. The new model is also available in a day cab for regional and heavy hauling operations interested in fuel-efficiency and low operating costs.
The Kenworth Driver Information Center empowers the driver to enhance fuel economy performance and efficiency by providing instant trip access information for miles per gallon, engine and idle hours, idle percentage and optimum RPM range.
For more information, visit http://www.Kenworth.com.
