Kenworth Reinvents the Cab with a Bold Central Touchscreen

Large touchscreen anchors Kenworth’s interior redesign

Kenworth is updating the interior of its Class 8 trucks with a redesigned cab, a larger infotainment display, wireless phone charging and a standard electronic parking brake.

The changes are aimed at improving comfort, access to in-cab controls and day-to-day convenience for professional drivers. They also build on PACCAR Connect, the company’s connected-vehicle platform, which brings applications and digital tools into the truck.

The centerpiece is a new 15-inch horizontal high-definition touchscreen. Kenworth describes the display as the largest in the industry. It provides access to PACCAR Connect, along with radio and heating, ventilation and air-conditioning controls and other in-cab functions.

The screen is positioned within easy reach of the driver. A handhold surrounds the display, giving drivers additional support while operating the controls. Kenworth says the design is intended to make touchscreen interaction more stable and comfortable, whether the truck is traveling on the highway or operating around a jobsite.

The layout reflects the growing role of integrated digital systems in heavy trucks. Rather than separating connected applications, entertainment and climate controls across different locations, the new display brings several functions together in one interface. Full PACCAR Connect capabilities are scheduled to become available in Kenworth trucks beginning in early 2027.

The interior redesign also includes visual and storage updates. Kenworth has added premium wood trim accents and new color choices for its Diamond VIT and Vantage trim packages. The Vantage interior is available in Charcoal, while the Diamond interior can be ordered in Charcoal or Titanium.

Other cab changes include new USB-C charging ports, updated HVAC louvers and flexible choices for configuring the instrument panel and storage areas. Those details are aimed at accommodating the equipment and personal items drivers commonly keep within reach during long shifts.

Wireless phone charging is now standard. The charger is located next to the steering wheel and includes a phone cubby designed to hold a compatible device securely while it charges. Drivers will not need to connect a cable for compatible phones, although the feature is intended as a convenience rather than a replacement for other charging options.

Kenworth is also making its electronic parking brake standard on all new 2.1-meter Class 8 trucks. The system was previously available as an option.

The electronic brake replaces traditional red-and-yellow push-pull knobs with ergonomic switches. LED indicators show the parking-brake status at a glance, while familiar symbols remain in place to help drivers recognize the controls. Kenworth says the switches are designed to simplify activation and reduce fatigue and distraction during frequent stops.

For drivers making repeated deliveries or operating in applications that require frequent parking-brake use, the change puts the control in a more compact, switch-based format. The visible status indicators also provide a quick confirmation of whether the brake is engaged.

“Being The Driver’s Truck means continually listening to our customers and finding ways to improve their experience,” said Kevin Haygood, Kenworth’s assistant general manager for sales and marketing. “These latest enhancements bring together innovative technology and thoughtful design to deliver a more comfortable, convenient, and connected cab environment.”

The updates come as truck manufacturers continue adding connected systems and larger digital displays to heavy-duty vehicles. For drivers, the practical impact will depend on how easily the systems can be used while maintaining attention on the road. Kenworth’s inclusion of a surrounding handhold and an ergonomic screen position addresses the physical side of that interaction, while the redesigned storage and charging features focus on everyday cab use.

The new interior features and options are available on new truck orders. The electronic parking brake is standard on the specified new 2.1-meter Class 8 models, while wireless charging and the other interior updates are part of the available redesign. PACCAR Connect functionality will begin rolling out in Kenworth trucks in early 2027.