LOUISVILLE, KY – Kenworth Truck Company has released its new Kenworth T270 Class 6 hybrid-electric truck. While hybrid trucks are in their infancy, they show significant potential from a fuel economy and environmental perspective.

“Customers and regional authorities are looking for fuel-efficient, environmental-friendly solutions. The new Kenworth T270 hybrid vehicle offers the benefits of reduced fuel use as well as the civic impact of responsible environmental practices,” said Bob Christensen, Kenworth general manager and PACCAR vice president.

Kenworth will have limited production of medium-duty hybrid trucks for municipal fleets and utility companies this year with full-scale production expected to follow in 2008, according to Christensen.

The Kenworth T270 Class 6 hybrid medium-duty conventional is powered by the new PACCAR PX-6 engine and features an integral transmission-mounted motor/generator, a frame-mounted 340-volt battery pack, and a dedicated power management system. The goal for the T270 hybrid is to improve fuel economy by 30 percent in start-and-stop applications, such as utility trucks and pick-up and delivery.

For medium-duty applications, such as for utility work, the T270 hybrid can be spec’d with an electric power-take-off (PTO).