Kenworth 2008 Model Range
With new noise and engine emission standards due for introduction from January 1st 2008, Kenworth has taken the opportunity to redesign the entire model range, from the T350 to the flagship T604 and K104B.
“It has certainly been an exciting undertaking for us all” said Peter Langworthy, Kenworth General Sales Manager.
“The process of redesigning, re-engineering and preparing the production facility for the new model range has involved resources from every facet of our organisation and our supplier base” Peter continued.
“We have also consulted widely with our customers and involved them in our test program to ensure that the new range continues to meet their applications and needs in our dynamic road transport environment “ said Peter.
Of paramount importance in delivering the new range was the need to maintain the outstanding performance, quality, durability and productivity for which Kenworth is renowned, and local testing was a critical part of the mix.
The preparations for the new range commenced over two years ago and by the end of this year will have included the construction and deployment of over 40 test vehicles, and more than 2 million kilometers of road testing in some of Australia’s harshest conditions and applications.
In combination with all the technical testing, the knowledge gained from this real life experience in the Australian environment will deliver the best range of 2008 compliant heavy duty trucks available. Every truck across the range now meets the target emissions performance ratings. Fuel capacity has been maintained and tare weight increases related to the new engine emission technology have been minimised.
“It was critical for our customers that the new range deliver the performance ratings necessary for optimal productivity, whilst still meeting the new noise and engine emission standards” said Peter.
“Kenworth has included highly efficient cooling packages, designed for Australia’s extreme temperatures. We elected to do this rather than rely on excessive fan cycle on time to control engine temperatures. Apart from the benefits of greater reliability of cooling components, we believe our customer will also appreciate fuel economy improvements.”
The new model range is packed with all the benefits transport operators have come to expect from Kenworth:
Ö Reliability
Ö Durability
Ö Efficiency
Ö Productivity
Ö Lower whole-of-life costs
Ö Higher fuel capacity with shortest bumper setting
Ö Huge choice of engine, driveline and feature options
There are numerous other enhancements across the range. These include increased cab dimensions in day cab configurations, increased roof height on T4 models, and other refinements including exterior styling changes to some hoods and grilles, improved lighting, interior storage and dash layouts.
The new range in detail:
The T608 reflects over 20 years experience of aerodynamic truck design in Australia starting with the groundbreaking T600. Incorporating award winning design elements, it delivers benchmark aerodynamic performance.
Primarily suited to on-highway applications this truck offers a range of engines up to 625hp, improved cooling capacity and state of the art interior appointments. The T608 provides the power to haul the biggest payloads, efficiently and in comfort, and is well suited to multiple trailer combinations. For outright versatility and road presence in an aerodynamic package, there is no finer truck than the T608.
The T608 now features a larger day cab version which has been extended by 100mm offering more room and driver comfort.
New LED indicators and repeat signals offer higher visibility, longer life spans and less current draw on the batteries.
The T608 ADR 80 engine options include Cat ACERT and Cummins ERG, with ratings up to 625hp and 2050ftlb torque. All complemented by class leading cooling packages including high efficiency radiator and charge cooler assembly with new fan.
Other features include a new, larger aerodynamic hood and styling incorporating a new grille, new bumper and bulbar options and the outstanding aerodynamic full fuel tank fairing.
The Kenworth K108 cab-over is the best choice when it comes to maximising your bottom line for B-Double applications. The K108 provides operators with exceptional power and flexibility, so they can haul bigger loads with greater ease. The K108 is versatile enough to suit most applications in Australia, particularly 25m and 26m B-Double and B-Triple combinations.
Since its introduction in 1971, well in excess of 10,000 Australian designed and manufactured K series C.O.E.’s have been sold in Australia and New Zealand. In this time. there have been many new K series models and enhancements. Continuing this evolutionary journey with the K108, Kenworth have once again developed, tailored and introduced new technologies into the model, responding to changing customer needs and government legislation such as the latest noise and engine emission standards.
In addition to these renowned characteristics, the K108 retains the improvements to cab access, driver visibility, interior ergonomics and finish introduced with the K104B late last year. These combined features have been specifically designed to enhance driver appeal and safety with an even higher level of overall quality.
For example, the cab access system was designed around industry standard dimensional criteria. These criteria include having consistent step dimensions and allowing the driver to maintain continuous three points of contact at all times utilising the system of grab rails and steps.
The steps also feature durable non-slip surfaces and LED illumination within the cab foot wells. The LED step lights are integrated with the remote control central locking system to automatically illuminate the cab access steps when the cab is unlocked. This enhances safe night-time entry and exit from the cab.
The higher door position enhances driver comfort and safety by offering an excellent field of vision from the seated position, out towards the sides, and into the rear view mirrors.
The K108 interior features a luxurious high quality finish with greater use of soft ‘plush’ vinyl and recessed panels.
The Instrument layout features a warning light cluster designed to provide the driver with all the required warning devices and signals within the same dash location, enabling the driver to be less distracted from the road ahead.
The K108 centre console incorporates a large storage box with secure lid. It is ideal for storing light refreshments and personal items.
The overhead console includes a storage locker and recessed panels for improved finish incorporating provision for dealer fitted GPS navigation or other driver information displays.
Even pre-trip checking of fluid levels has never been easier, accomplished via a bright finish stainless steel access door covering the dipstick and filler tube.
Cab height has been raised by 80mm with enhanced under cab heat and noise shielding.
There are new dual 7” round headlights, a new LED high visibility front turn signal and radiator grille surround.
Power and performance come from a range of engine choices including CAT C-13 ACERT, C-15 ACERT, Cummins ISX EGR or Signature EGR with up to 625Hp and 2050lbft of torque, all complemented by class leading cooling packages including larger 6 row dual pass radiators.
The K108 has been designed first and foremost with maximum productivity in mind. It is now not uncommon for line-haul B-double customers to be pushing past 500,000 kms per annum utilisation. To do that you need a truck with the right amount of power and one that can be relied upon to be available for work day-in, day-out. A truck that offers maximum flexibility in specifications in a package drivers want to drive – the K108 certainly fits the bill.
T4 Series:
Kenworth has placed a lot of emphasis on enhancing the T4 series model range for 2008. The new T4 series range features two new models, the aerodynamic T408 and the traditionally styled T408SAR. This new model range includes a host of customer benefits including cab dimensions that have increased in height and, for the day cab, increased in depth. Both the T408 and T408SAR models are also now available with 28”, revised 36” and 50” integrated “aero” sleeper options. The 36” version has been modified to provide additional dip clearance for maximum deck space 26m refrigerated operations. Engine power availability has been increased to 550hp and 1850lbft across the range - options include CAT C-13 ACERT, C-15 ACERT and Cummins ISX EGR.
The T4 series of truck has been designed to offer our customers a very versatile truck range. Now featuring appointments previously only available from our T6 and T9 series trucks we have an ideal solution for customers operating 19m and 26m combinations where a conventional is the preferred choice.
The T4 Range In Detail
T408:
The T408 has been developed in Australia as a flexible and aerodynamic solution for on-highway operation. It offers the ideal aerodynamic conventional solution for general freight or tanker operations. With up to 550hp available, the T408 is the perfect truck for maximum capacity 19 and 26m combinations where overall length is critical.
The T408 uses new high visibility LED indicators and repeat signals which draw less current.
T408 cab roof height has been raised thereby improving visibility and driver comfort. The day cab version has also been extended by 100mm offering more cab space and improved accessibility.
The T408 has ADR 80/02 compliant Cummins and Caterpillar engine options with ratings up to 550hp and 1850lbft
With sleek styling the T408 has been designed with aerodynamic efficiency and fuel economy in mind. The new larger hood and styling incorporates a new Grille, new high visibility LED’s and repeaters, eye catching aerodynamic new side fairings and full fuel tank fairing option and new aero style bumper or FUPS compliant alloy bumper and bullbar options
The front axle has been moved back 25 mm incorporating a new chassis layout and chassis componentry
T408 SAR:
The T408SAR offers similar features to the T408 such as the increased cab dimensions and new sleeper options but in a more traditional package.
With its set forward front axle setting, the truck has been specifically designed to provide maximum payload for 19m B-Double and 19m Quad Dog applications. It also fits within the 26m envelope for B-Doubles.
Reflecting its function as a tough workhorse, the T408SAR features the classic Kenworth flat grille and hood.
The front axle has been moved further forward by 35 mm allowing increased payload for 19m quad dog applications. There are also a new “Texas style” alloy FUPS compliant bumper and bull bar options.
Under the new larger hood and grille, the T408SAR offers a wide range of engines, transmissions, axles and suspension options, allowing the T408SAR to be tailored to suit a wide range variety of applications.
Choose form engines up to 550Hp and 1850lbft of torque including the CAT C-13 ACERT, C-15 ACERT, and Cummins ISX EGR., all with class leading cooling package including a larger radiator and charge air cooler.
T358:
The tight turning circle and short bumper to back of cab measurement makes the T358 the ultimate performer for urban and intrastate operations, with great maneuverability and visibility.
Since the inception of the T350 series, customers are becoming increasingly aware of the benefits of running this truck in urban and intrastate operations where previously they may have thought a cab over was the only sensible option.
Customers who operate interstate line-haul style long distance haulage operations expect maximum productivity and high utilization, and therefore reliability and durability. Many of these customers are now demanding the same vehicle attributes for their local operations running into and out of Distribution Centres 24/7.
The T3 series is an ideal choice for these high capacity metropolitan applications.
It is also a good example of Kenworths ability to application engineer specific models and features for niche markets - for example high volume urban concrete operations, where the need is for a highly durable but low tare weight truck able to cart the maximum amount of cubic meters of concrete over a long life span.
The T358A builds on the success of the original T350A concrete agitator. Available in 6 x 4, 8 x 4 and now 10 x 4 axle configurations, its primary purpose is to provide all of the characteristics Kenworth is renowned for in a light weight and versatile package. With good turning circle and exceptional driver visibility it offers optimum payload and maximum concrete carrying capabilities.
The T358 has new engine options including Cummins ISC ERG and Cat C9 ACERT, with greater power options up to 350hp. And it comes with greater driveline configurations, 6 x 4, 8 x 4 and 10 x 4 offering more flexibility in more applications.
Available in T358 prime mover, T358 rigid and T358A concrete agitator versions, the T358 is perfect where access is limited, excelling as it moves in and out of tight spaces and through traffic day in day out – an urban classic.
T658:
With an unmatched reputation for being rugged, reliable and tough, the Kenworth T658 is designed and built in Australia to handle the most brutal jobs the country has to offer, both on and off the highway. Whether you need to haul a triple road train on a back road, or a load of logs out of a forest, you’ll do it easily and in more comfort and style when you’re behind the wheel of a T658.
The T650 is renowned for its ability to keep its cool on the hottest of days and with the highest loads. Designed to offer many years of trouble free operation in the harshest conditions Australia can offer, the T658 builds on this heritage of a no fuss, reliable and durable truck that is easy to maintain. So when you are far from help on a lonely back road with 6 decks of cattle the T658 provides the reassurance that it will get through and get you home again.
The T658 is available with up to 625hp and 2050lbft of torque, from a choice of engines including: CAT C-15 ACERT Cummins ISX EGR and Signature EGR. All come with class leading cooling packages including a new 1800 in² radiator and larger Charge Air Cooler (CAC) so the T658 runs at the optimum temperature.
The condenser now has a stainless Grilldenser as standard, and there are new alloy FUPS bumper and HD bullbar options.
Inside the cab features a new flat dash layout and Kenworth’s hard wearing trim for durability and comfort.
The front axle has been moved back 25 mm to allow a better turning circle.
T908:
For sheer awe inspiring road presence there is nothing on the road that compares to the Kenworth T908. However Kenworth’s tradition of classic styling continues with much more than just good looks.
With an almost endless array of options and features, Kenworth can tailor the T908 to suit a multitude of applications and needs, from high profile express freight operations where image is paramount to a rugged triple road train With the capacity to handle 625hp engines, the T908 is versatile enough to operate in many applications where the front axle weight is critical.
The T908 is available with CAT C-15 ACERT, Cummins ISX EGR and Signature EGR with ratings up to 625Hp and 2050lbft of torque. All come with class leading cooling packages including an all new 1800 in² radiator ensuring even on the hottest day the T908 runs at optimum temperature with minimum “fan on” time.
C508:
The Kenworth C508 proves itself daily in some of the roughest and toughest environments on earth. Designed and built in Australia, from a vast database of experience and engineering know-how, every Kenworth C508 is manufactured exactly for its application, be that mining, heavy haulage or off-highway, so that they can carry on where lesser trucks cannot.
Based on the tried and proven C500 and C501 models the C508 is available with up to 625Hp and 2050lbft of torque Cat C-15 ACERT and Cummins Signature EGR engines and a multitude of driveline components.
The C508 can be configured for very high GCM mining and off road applications including mining service operations and features a new cooling package including 1500 in² 6 row (dual pass) radiator, larger Charge Air Cooler and new radiator assembly.
In Summary:
“The 2008 Kenworth range proves yet again Kenworth’s ability to develop and deliver trucks that best fit Australian applications, meeting or exceeding the needs of our customers with versatile, reliable and most of all productive solutions,” said Peter Langworthy, Kenworth General Sales Manager.
“Our customers choose Kenworth for a number of reasons, from the trucks’ quality design and build to the dealer network of parts and service support . Kenworth delivers the complete package. Call it Kenworth Peace of Mind ”
“We will continue to invest heavily in local design and manufacture so we can provide our customers the best heavy duty truck solution for their business. To be market leader in what is probably the most productive road transport industry in the world is an excellent endorsement from our customers and one we will strive to maintain with the new range launch later this year, and into the future,” Peter concluded.
Kenworth trucks are designed and manufactured in Australia to meet the world’s toughest applications. Kenworth, a division of PACCAR Australia, is market leader in heavy duty trucks in Australia. Its trucks are also exported to Papua New Guinea and New Zealand. PACCAR Inc, a Six Sigma company, is a worldwide manufacturer of heavy and medium duty trucks under the Kenworth, Peterbilt and DAF nameplates. It also provides financial services and distributes truck parts related to its principal business.
RELEASE ENDS
For further information:
Neil Willox
Marketing Manager
PACCAR Australia
Tel: (03) 9721 1500 Media Contact: Neil Willox (neil.willox@paccar.com)
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