At the Advanced Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo in Las Vegas, Hino Trucks, in partnership with Hexagon Purus, has announced the launch of its new dedicated zero-emissions truck brand.
The brand, Tern, also unveiled its inaugural vehicle model in the RC8 battery electric Class 8 tractor.
The semi-tractor uses Hexagon Purus’ years of zero-emissions drivetrain development for heavy-duty trucks and represents a different option for fleets.
The new long-term agreement between Hino and Hexagon is valued at nearly $3 billion will see Tern deliver a seamless transition to electrification for the US’ commercial vehicle sector.
The new vehicles will be manufactured in Hexagon Purus’ new facility in Dallas, Texas, with the RC8 scheduled for serial production later this year.
The model is built on Hino’s XL Series 4×2 chassis and is equipped with Hexagon’s zero-emissions technology, including proprietary battery systems, auxiliary modules and power modules.
The vehicle uses a US assembled Hino chassis, an e-Axle from Dana and Panasonic Energy battery cells.
“Tern RC8 delivers the comfort, reliability and safety that drivers and fleets want, and it’s purpose-built to be a very practical truck for operators integrating zero-emission trucks into their fleets,” Hexagon Purus CEO Morten Holum says.
“We are excited to introduce a truck that embodies the endurance and efficiency of the Arctic Tern, renowned for its light weight and long migratory journey – a trusty companion you can always rely on.”
The new brand trucks will be available through Tern’s dealer network, using Hino’s existing infrastructure for total support and service.
“Our partnership with Hexagon Purus introduces a highly reliable Class 8, 4×2 tractor option into the electric truck market, catering to a wide range of applications,” Hino Trucks president Glenn Ellis says.
“We are excited to see Tern launched in California, where fleet electrification is imperative.”