Kenworth presents its zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell T680

Kenworth presented its zero-emission, hydrogen fuel cell T680 at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. The prototype is equipped with a daycab with a fuel cells installed behind it. The tractor will be tested by Total Transportation Services in the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach.

The Kenworth T680 day cab’s fuel cell combines compressed hydrogen gas and air to produce electricity with only water vapor emitted at the tailpipe. This power can be used to drive the dual-rotor electric motor to move the truck up to its top speed of 65 mph, or to charge 100 kWh lithium-ion batteries.

The hybrid drive system manages the power from the fuel cell to and from the batteries, as well as the traction motors and other components, such as the electrified power steering and brake air compressor.

Kenworth reports that the fuel cell T680 perfectly passed the first tests. Its range is up to 150 miles and it can carry the legal gross combination weight of a Class 8 vehicle.