Kenworth unveiled a new lineup of medium-duty trucks at the Mid-America Trucking Show. It 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.
The T370 Class 7 and T270 Class 6 models incorporate a new lighting system, stylish hood and grille. The models feature new halogen projector low-beam headlamps with 30 percent more light down the road and three times longer life than sealed beam headlamps, the company said. The hood is made of sheet molded composite for enhanced fit and finish, while a new hood assist device and 90-degree hood tilt opening offer better 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 hp and 750 ft.-lb. of torque, and with the PACCAR PX-8 engine rated to 330 hp and 1,000 ft.-lb. of torque. Customers can choose manual or automatic transmissions and air or hydraulic brakes. Both models offer many exhaust options for the various wheelbases, which is important to body builders that work with medium-duty customers.
The wrap-around instrument panel features large, easy-to-read, glare-free gauges. The fully trimmed cab is quiet with no doghouse, which helps to reduce interior noise, the company said. Standard features include power door locks, passenger-side electric windows (optional on the driver’s side), and DayLite doors with peeper window. Drivers will appreciate the 50-degree wheel cut for excellent maneuverability. The T370 and T270 are scheduled to begin 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 to make tight maneuvers in city conditions.
For more information, visit www.kenworth.com.