Meritor extends contract to deliver 14Xe epowertrains to PACCAR

Kenworth T680E on display at CES 2022 Photo credit: Kenworth

Meritor has extended its contract with PACCAR to supply 14Xe epowertrains and battery-electric vehicle integration kits for the Class 8 Kenworth T680E and Peterbilt 579EV tractors and 520EV refuse trucks.

Part of Meritor’s Blue Horizon advanced technology portfolio, the 14Xe is described as the only fully-integrated, all-electric drive suitable for Class 8 trucks in North America.

“This extension affirms the strength of the PACCAR and Meritor partnership, and illustrates that our technology continues to prove itself in real-world applications,” said Tim Bowes, senior vice president and president, Electrification, Industrial and North America Aftermarket for Meritor.

“PACCAR is committed to delivering cutting-edge electrification solutions to our customers,” said Darrin Siver, PACCAR senior vice president. “Meritor has performed very well and is a key partner to help us deliver on this commitment.”

According to Kenworth, the T680E is designed for regional haul and drayage applications. The model is available as a tractor or straight truck in a 6x4 axle configuration.

The powertrain delivers 536 hp (670 hp peak power) and 1623 lb ft of torque, with a maximum speed of 65 mph (122 km/h). GVWR is 82,000 lb.

Estimated operating range is about 150 miles (240 km). Recharging is done using a standard SAE CCSI port, with a full charge completed in about three hours.

Kevin Baney, Kenworth general manager and PACCAR vice president, said: “The new Kenworth T680E provides our customers with a true zero-emissions solution that will help to achieve their own green program objectives.”

PACCAR also operates a series of charging stations, with power output ranging from 20 to 350 kW. EV chargers can also be supplied to customer locations.