A Kenworth hydrogen-powered truck has become one of the first Class 8 zero emissions vehicles to drive the 14,115 foot summit of Pikes Peak in Colorado.

Accompanied by a battery-electric Peterbilt Model 579EV, both vehicles handily negotiated grades between 7-10% over the famous 12.42 mile Pikes Peak International Hill Climb course.

The hydrogen-powered Kenworth T680 displayed superb power and exhibited excellent driveability over the 156 twisting turns and switchbacks during the 4,700 foot elevation gain to the summit, Kenworth said.

The American truck manufacturer’s T680 offers 470hp and a 350-mile range with a 15-minute refuelling time.

Kenworth and Toyota Motor North America are collaborating on a project to develop 10 zero emissions Kenworth T680 trucks powered by Toyota hydrogen fuel cell electric powertrains.

“It’s a great accomplishment for the Kenworth T680 fuel cell electric vehicle to summit Pikes Peak,” said Kevin Baney, Kenworth General Manager and PACCAR vice president.

“The Kenworth T680 trucks will be placed in operation with our customers at the Port of Los Angeles over the next few months.”

This article is reproduced at www.h2-view.com