Kenworth has launched its new T680 Next Generation on-highway flagship that offers key technology and aerodynamic advancements.
Kenworth especially focussed on developing a highly effective aerodynamic package to reduce drag and increase fuel efficiency. It says the T680 Next Gen is the most aerodynamic truck in the company‘s history, surpassing the fuel efficiency of the current T680. There is up to an estimated 6% overall fuel economy increase for a T680 Next Gen 76” sleeper compared with a similarly spec‘d T680 with an EPA 2017 PACCAR MX-13 engine.
The aero enhancements include a new aero bumper and hood, turning vanes, durable lower fairing extensions, chassis fairings, wheel-well closeouts, 28” side extenders, tandem drive-axle fairings, and wheel covers.
The restyled, aerodynamic bumper maintains the same approach angle and ground clearance as the classic Kenworth T680. The bumper has an improved profile to direct air past the wheel openings, improving aerodynamics. The unique air-dam design guides and controls airflow under the chassis while providing protective coverage under the cooling module. It features an offset radar allowing for a robust centre-mounted license plate holder. A sleek new aerodynamic hood includes a bold air-intake system design, hood air vent for aero benefit, narrower grille, and high-visibility side turn indicators. The hood is available in two sizes – 125” BBC (standard) or 119” BBC (MX) – with fairings or a split fender set-up.
Kenworth has improved chassis packaging, creating a shorter wheelbase and a reduced trailer gap of between 38” and 42”. Sleeper side extenders are designed to open to allow for frame access with the tighter trailer gap. While the team created even more new aerodynamic touches from the cab back, it also redesigned the cab‘s steps with a more stair-like entry. A lighter front axle and lower ply tires can be spec‘d for cost savings.
Up-front are full LED headlamps and a built-in infrared heater to clear ice and snow quickly. A new, LED side turn indicator offers increased visibility to surrounding traffic and is standard with all hood options.
The T680 Next Gen is powered by the EPA 2021 PACCAR MX-13 12.9-litre engine, which features enhanced durability, reduced complexity, performance upgrades, increased down-speeding capability and more efficient combustion. The MX13 is integrated with the PACCAR 12-speed transmission and PACCAR 40K tandem rear axles.
Cab options include day cab and 40”, 52” and 76” sleeper configurations. The T680 Next Gen with 76” high-roof sleepers can be spec‘d with the optional Kenworth Cargo Shelf – a 5.5” storage shelf with multiple secure tie-down points. Two LED lights on the shelf‘s underside provide lower bunk lighting.
The cab features a new 15” high-definition, fully digital display – the largest available as standard in any North American truck. The design is easily adjustable to enable drivers to match their preferences, while also automatically displaying critical content. The display is controlled via the Kenworth SmartWheel. The new digital instrumentation system allows seamless viewing selection between two Minimised Views, Basic View, Maximised View and even a driver-customisable Favourites View.
A new Bluetooth microphone is located near the CB tray in the header.
The T680 Next Gen offers a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and introduces camera-aided Lane Keeping Assist and Torque Assisted Steering as options for the first time in the Kenworth line-up. The T680 Next Gen also includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning, Collision Mitigation and Side Object Detection.
Standard-fit Kenworth TruckTech+ Remote Diagnostics enhances vehicle diagnostics by providing engine health information for Class 8 Kenworths to fleet managers and Kenworth dealers. The system diagnoses the issue and provides the recommended solution to the driver and fleet manager.
