Kenworth, Peterbilt roll out new medium-duty battery-EV models
Kenworth and Peterbilt have expanded their battery-electric lineups with new medium-duty models built around PACCAR’s integrated PACCAR ePowertrain. The announcements add more zero-tailpipe-emissions choices in the same weight and vocational segments many fleets already run with diesel.
For drivers, the big takeaway is that both brands are pushing battery-electric deeper into everyday medium-duty work—think local and regional routes and specialized vocational jobs where return-to-base charging is more practical than over-the-road operation.
Kenworth introduced its first conventional medium-duty battery-electric trucks: the T280E, T380E, and T480E. The models span Class 6 through Class 8 applications. Kenworth said the trucks are available to order now through dealers in the U.S. and Canada, with production scheduled to begin in 2026.
Peterbilt expanded its EV lineup with three new medium-duty models: the 536EV, 537EV, and 548EV. Peterbilt said the trucks are built on proven platforms but replace diesel power with the latest PACCAR electric drivetrain. The company described the additions as a way to broaden its zero-emissions application coverage and address more customer needs.
- Peterbilt’s new 536EV/537EV/548EV models use LFP battery chemistry and can charge at up to 350 kW.
- Peterbilt cited up to 605 hp and 1,850 lb-ft of torque from the PACCAR electric setup.
- Peterbilt listed two battery-capacity choices with a maximum stated range of 280 miles, and said 350 kW DC fast charging can reach 80% in just over 80 minutes.
- Peterbilt also noted available furnished-by-owner ePTO options rated at 25 kW (two-battery option) or 150 kW (three-battery option).
Peterbilt’s feature list includes regenerative braking options, a 15-inch EV display for performance information, and LFP batteries positioned as optimized for cycle life and thermal safety. The trucks also include standard safety systems such as pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, and rollaway protection through electronically activated parking brakes. Styling updates mentioned include blue-accented grilles and trim, EV-specific hood panels, and magneto-gray interiors.
Both OEMs are leaning on PACCAR’s shared technology to scale electrification across more configurations. That matters in the medium-duty space because it’s where many electric trucks are most likely to fit real-world operations today: shorter routes, predictable duty cycles, and planned charging, rather than long-haul freight.
The moves also build on earlier steps toward electrification in the segment. Peterbilt previously unveiled a medium-duty 220EV in January 2019 in partnership with Meritor and TransPower, and Kenworth has offered electric options like the K270E and K370E aimed at localized deliveries and medium-duty work.