Kenworth Truck and Peterbilt Motors have introduced substantial additions to their battery-electric vehicle (BEV) portfolios, rolling out new medium-duty models based on PACCAR’s integrated ePowertrain platform. The new trucks are intended to expand zero-emission options for a wide array of applications, including regional distribution, utility, and vocational fleets across the U.S. and Canada.
Kenworth launched its first conventional medium-duty BEVs, the T280E, T380E, and T480E. These models are now available for order, with production scheduled to begin in 2026. The trucks feature eMotor ratings from 170 kW up to 350 kW, with peak torque reaching 1,850 lb-ft. Depending on the configuration, two battery options—250 kWh and 375 kWh—provide ranges of up to 200 miles and 280 miles, respectively.
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All Kenworth vehicles support DC fast charging at up to 350 kW, capable of achieving a charge in approximately one hour. The Class 6 T280E is optimized for urban distribution, while the Class 7/8 T380E is available as a truck or tractor for regional hauling, and the Class 8 T480E addresses heavier drayage and vocational work.
Kenworth’s assistant general manager for sales and marketing, Kevin Haygood, stated the launch underscores the company’s commitment to supporting customers’ sustainability goals. “The launch of our new medium-duty battery-electric lineup demonstrates Kenworth’s dedication to helping customers transition to zero-emission transportation with practical, powerful, and flexible solutions,” Haygood said.
Similarly, Peterbilt expanded its zero-emission offerings with the new medium-duty Models 536EV, 537EV, and 548EV. The Class 6/7 536EV and 537EV are aimed at regional delivery and utility services, while the Class 8 548EV is designed for vocational configurations and 4×2 tractors requiring power take-off (PTO) functions. Peterbilt’s trucks utilize the PACCAR ePowertrain, featuring LFP battery chemistry and supporting a range of up to 280 miles. They also support 350 kW DC charging, reaching 80 per cent charge in just over 80 minutes, and offer high-powered ePTO options up to 150 kW for equipment integration.
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Erik Johnson, Peterbilt assistant general manager of Sales & Marketing, highlighted the performance and versatility. “Optimised for the demands of the medium duty segment, the next generation of Peterbilt electric vehicles deliver excellent efficiency, rapid charging and versatile configurations elevating customer productivity across a wide range of applications,” Johnson said.
Both Kenworth and Peterbilt vehicles incorporate PACCAR’s central-drive eMotor design, which allows for flexible chassis configurations and vocational body integrations, along with cab features such as a 15-inch EV-specific digital display.