Kenworth plans fuel cell truck production in 2025

Kenworth announced it will begin production of its Class 8 zero emissions T680 hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV), powered by Toyota fuel cell technology. Initial customer deliveries are planned for 2024 with serial production planned in 2025. Kenworth dealers in the United States and Canada are now accepting deposits for the first of these T680 FCEV builds.

Kenworth announced that its T680 fuel cell truck will begin serial production in 2024. (Photo: Kenworth)

Kenworth said it collaborated closely with Toyota Motor North America, Inc. to integrate Toyota’s latest advancements in hydrogen fuel cell technology into its flagship T680 on-highway truck. The T680 FCEV has a range of up to 450 miles, depending upon driving conditions.

“The T680 FCEV was engineered to offer one of the longest driving ranges of any zero emissions trucks on the market,” said Kevin Baney, Kenworth general manager and Paccar vice president. “With quick refueling, this broadens our zero-emission product offering to include round-the-clock operations in regional haul and demonstrates FCEV potential for long haul.”

The truck is equipped with Toyota’s 310 kW Dual Motor Assembly, capable of providing 415 hp continuously at a maximum payload of 82,000 lb. (GCWR), and the Toyota Gen 2 Dual Fuel Cell Module. Electricity generated by the fuel cell is stored in 200 kWh batteries and 58.8 kg of gaseous hydrogen is stored in six cylinders positioned behind the cab.

“After years of research and development with Toyota and product testing the T680 FCEV in real-world operations, it’s an exciting time in Kenworth’s history to bring this technologically advanced truck to market,” Baney said.

Last year, Kenworth and Toyota completed a joint pilot program at the Port of Los Angeles, where Kenworth customers operated 10 prototype T680 FCEVs in a real-world setting. The program’s success laid the foundation for Kenworth and Toyota engineers to develop the T680 FCEV that is the focus of the commercialization plans.

“Toyota is excited to take the next step in this joint effort with Kenworth to provide a zero-emission powertrain kit to its customers,” said Matt Stich, general manager Fuel Cell Solutions, Toyota Motor North America. “This proven hydrogen-powered fuel cell electric technology will allow commercial customers to help reduce carbon and operate more sustainably.”