Get FinancingKenworth Unveils T180 & T280 Medium-Duty Trucks Built With Customer-Requested Features
Kenworth has announced a number new trucks lately, including a pair of medium-duty models for non-CDL drivers in the U.S. and Canadian markets. The manufacturer says its new Class 5 T180 and Class 6 T280 have been redesigned completely from the ground up with an eye toward quality, performance, reliability, and durability.
“We designed these new Kenworth medium-duty trucks with our customers,” says the company’s Chief Engineer, Joe Adams. “Over the past several years, Kenworth actively sought, listened to, and collected invaluable input and feedback from nearly 1,000 customers and drivers throughout the extensive design process.”
Model Differentiation
With a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of up to 19,000 pounds (8,618 kilograms), the new T180 is ideal for urban delivery, according to its maker. It’s available in 4x2 straight truck configurations with standard hydraulic brakes. The T180 is powered by a 6.7-liter PACCAR PX-7 diesel engine.
The Kenworth T280 comes standard with the PX-7 engine and optionally with the 8.9-L PACCAR PX-9. The 26,000-lb (11,793-kg) T280 straight truck can be equipped with a front drive axle rated at up to 12,000 lbs (5,442 kg). Kenworth suggests the truck for regional and general freight-hauling applications.
PACCAR TX-8 Transmission
“These Kenworth models possess excellent versatility and maneuverability, a spacious 6.9-foot-wide cab, exceptional visibility, driver-focused ergonomics, and the new PACCAR TX-8 transmission,” says Kenworth General Manager and PACCAR Vice President Kevin Baney.
The eight-speed TX-8 automatic transmission was engineered for a power-to-weight ratio that’s best in its class, the manufacturer says. Strong yet lightweight, the TX-8 can withstand up to 1,000 pounds-foot (1,356 newton-meters) of torque and a 57,000-lb (25,800-kg) GCWR. The new transmission can also lock its torque converter in first gear at low speeds as needed. At the same time, the TX-8 performs smoothly, increases fuel economy by up to 5%, and supports up to 15% faster acceleration.
Enhanced Cab Size & Position
As with Kenworth’s recent heavy-duty trucks, the cab of the T180/T280 is 8 inches (203 millimeters) wider than the previous version. It comes in a standard 63-in. (1,600-mm) low roof or a 67-in. (1,702-mm) raised roof option. The cab is up to 2 in. (51 mm) lower to the ground, a boon for delivery drivers who spend much of their shift entering and exiting the vehicle.
The T180 and T280’s cab is also farther forward, which facilitates tighter turning radii and leaves more room for the equipment, bed, or box mounted on the rear of the truck. A lower cooling system mounted between the frame rails allows for more slope in the hood, which gives the driver a better view of the road ahead.
A very noticeable characteristic of the T180 and T280 is an aero grille made out of stainless steel. The trucks’ air intake has been changed to a less expensive automotive-style, flat-panel filter. An optional remote control lets the driver select the intake of inside or outside air.
Interior
The standard seating arrangement for the T180 and T280 includes a bench-style passenger seat that allows two riders to sit comfortably next to the driver. High- and low-backed seats are also available. The new cab is up to 50% quieter and has nearly 17% more windshield visibility than Kenworth’s previous cabin.
To reduce driver fatigue, Kenworth tweaked the geometry of the throttle, air-assisted hydraulic clutch, and brake pedals, and added full tilt and telescopic adjustability to the steering wheel. A column-mounted transmission shifter on the right-hand side provides better ergonomics than push-button controls, Kenworth says, as well as an extra cupholder as a bonus. Automatic temperature control comes standard.
High-Tech Features
In the midst of four analog dashboard gauges is a customizable, 7-inch digital display. The optional Kenworth SmartWheel lets the driver control the digital display using wheel-mounted buttons.
The T180 and T280 support optional Bendix Fusion driver assistance features. Available safety technologies include adaptive cruise control, collision mitigation, side object detection, and lane departure warning. The trucks also support Kenworth’s Connected TruckTech+ remote diagnostics.
Source: Kenworth