Gaining an Advantage: Kenworth's updated T680 boasts integrated drivetrain

摘要

In another sign that highly integrated aerodynamic trucks are becoming the default fleet spec, Kenworth recently sent its T680 highway tractor back to the drawing board. The resulting new model, the T680 Advantage, builds on the truck's already slippery profile while adding a host of internal and external enhancements to further increase efficiency and fuel economy in long-haul highway applications. Brett VanVoorhis, Kenworth's on-highway marketing manager, told me about the many tweaks found on the T680 Advantage during a test drive I took in the truck last month out of Birmingham, Ala. "The T680 was already an aerodynamic leader," VanVoorhis said. "Now we've added a number of features that will build on that solid platform." Most notable, he said, are the front air dam and larger side extenders, as well as a redesigned rear fairing and standard wheel covers. "These components reduce the trailer gap, move through the air more efficiently and combine to add just over a 1 percent improvement in fuel economy."