Red, White and Blue Kenworth T680 – “The Driver’s Truck”
LOUISVILLE, KY… Coming off a year with record Class 8 market share, Kenworth marked its return to the Mid-America Trucking Show highlighted by its classy red, white and blue decaled Kenworth T680 Advantage 76-inch sleeper – “The Driver’s Truck”– taking center stage in the Kenworth booth.
“The Kenworth T680 has established a high standard for excellence with its superior fuel efficiency, performance and comfort. There’s been a phenomenal customer response ranging from large fleets to owner-operators since the T680’s introduction five years ago at Mid-America,” said Mike Dozier, Kenworth general manager and PACCAR vice president. “The T680 truly is ‘The Driver’s Truck,’ and has become the fastest selling model in Kenworth history. It’s helping our customers reduce operating costs through its fuel-saving aerodynamics, while enhancing driver retention and recruitment by keeping drivers extremely happy piloting an exceptional truck. And the T680 is made by our employees at the Kenworth assembly plant in Chillicothe, Ohio.”
The special Kenworth T680 Advantage on display at Mid-America is specified with the latest technology, components and driver amenities. The truck starts with an optimized powertrain of a 2017 PACCAR MX-13 455-hp engine, new PACCAR 40K tandem rear axle, and Eaton Fuller Advantage(R) automated 10-speed transmission. Then, add the lightweight Meritor MFS+(TM) 12,500-lb front steer axle with integral knuckle for air disc brakes, and new Kenworth taperleaf lightweight springs for a comfortable ride.
The T680 Advantage is loaded with driver technology features. “The Kenworth Nav+ HD system with virtual gauges features a high-resolution 7-inch color screen for navigation, audio control – including satellite radio – along with internet access,” Dozier noted. “Our Driver Performance Center with useful technology aids for the driver, and Predictive Cruise Control both help enhance fuel economy. We also spec’d the Bendix(R) Wingman(R) Fusion(TM) driver assistance system, as well as a lane departure system. Plus, the T680 comes with Kenworth TruckTech+ Remote Diagnostics to help drive uptime by speeding service and repair at Kenworth dealerships.”
The T680 also includes the “Driver’s Studio” with a range of premium features that combine to create a luxurious, relaxing and comfortable living environment. For eating meals, there’s the 180-degree swivel passenger seat and rotating table to accommodate two people, a drawer-style refrigerator and a convenient space ideal for a microwave. Kenworth’s premium audio package – with 320-watt amp, 10-inch subwoofer and eight speakers; swivel TV mount for up to a 28-inch flat screen TV; and the optional EpicVue pre-wire for satellite TV, provides the entertainment. The Driver’s Studio offers a full-size wardrobe space for hanging clothes, multiple storage drawers, and a large storage space under the lower bunk. And when it’s time to get some restful sleep, there’s the 8-inch thick, luxury pocket coil mattress.
“While we feel the T680’s ride is unmatched, so too is its comfort level and design. For those who have not stepped inside our 76-inch sleeper, they’ll be impressed,” Dozer said. “We don’t think you’ll find a more comfortable sleeper on the market. It’s a home-run for those who spend extensive time on the road.”