Is it possible to double a semi truck’s efficiency? The Kenworth Supertruck 2 is basically doing this and much more with this streamlined concept truck that it worked on in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). The initial goal was to double the freight efficiency of a 2009 diesel truck. Here is what they did to improve the truck’s overall efficiency by 136% while averaging around 12.8 MPG with a combined weight of 65,000 lbs. Whoa! Oh yea, it’s powered by a turbo-diesel engine with a 48V mild hybrid system.
The Kenworth Supertruck 2 is making its world debut this week at the ACT Expo 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
It all started with a new chassis that is narrower in the front and wider in the rear than a traditional semi truck. It’s powered by a Paccar MX-11 turbo-diesel that is good for 440 horsepower. The engine is backed up by a TX-12 automated transmission. All of the truck’s accessories are electrically powered. It has a 48-volt hybrid system that includes an electric started/generator motor. The steering is electrically assisted. The truck uses a heat pump for HVAC duties. There are no belt-driven accessories on this diesel engine.
The truck only has one drive axle in the back. It doesn’t need a second drive axle because Kenworth removed about 7,100 lbs of curb weight from the tractor/trailer combination. The semi truck itself weighs about 4,100 lbs less than a comparable semi circa 2009. The company was able to remove around 3,000 lbs from the trailer that still uses a tandem rear axle arrangement. The Supertruck 2 has 80 gallons of diesel capacity, but can still go about the same distance as a traditional truck.
This concept truck pretends to be a bullet train for the highway, but it is fully functional. It has a narrow frame in the front and unique offset wheels. They hide under the fully enclosed front fenders, but this truck is able to make full-lock steering maneuvers. Kenworth tells me it’s very maneuverable.
This Supertruck has a central driver’s position. It uses cameras in place of exterior mirrors. It offers great visibility and a commanding position. Behind the driver is table/counter. Any person can easily stand up inside this cab. In the back of the cab is a couch that can hide and allow for a murphy-style bed to fold down.
Will this truck go into production soon? This is highly unlikely, but look for many of the technologies and ideas from this truck be incorporated into future Kenworth trucks.
I think they should just build this truck as is. What do you think?
Check out the longer walkaround video below!
