Sources: Kenworth Truck, Kirkland, Wash.; CP staff
As a smaller companion to its T880 flagship model for construction and other vocational applications, Kenworth has added a light Class 8 truck whose 107-in. or 109.5-in. bumper to back of cab length nets concrete mixer or dump packages for operators in urban markets or other environments where site conditions necessitate tight turning radius capability. Like the new series’ Class 5-7 models, the T480 has as standard a 2021 Paccar PX-7 or PX-9 engine, with respective ratings up to 325 hp and 380 hp, and the new eight-speed Paccar TX-8 automatic transmission.
“Our new lineup sets the industry standard for quality, performance, reliability and durability throughout the many diverse, medium duty applications in the U.S. and Canadian markets. These models possess excellent versatility and maneuverability, spacious 2.1-meter wide cab, exceptional visibility and driver-focused ergonomics,” says Kenworth General Manager Kevin Baney.
“Over the past several years, Kenworth actively sought, listened to and collected invaluable input and feedback from customers and drivers throughout the extensive design process. The customer insights—representing a variety of medium duty applications—were essential,” notes Chief Engineer Joe Adams. The 500-plus participants in design studies helped define the dimensions and fine-tuned ergonomics of the new models, he adds, resulting in a cab 8 inches wider than the previous version.
“From a series of sketches to digital data, to clay models, full size projections and prototypes, we kept our customers’ interests at the forefront of the processes and involved them through every chapter. With all this input, along with thoroughly dissecting competitive products, we developed a clear roadmap of what needed to be done,” affirms Kenworth Medium Duty Product Planning Manager Mark Wagner.
