At the Advanced Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo in Las Vegas, Hexagon Purus, in partnership with Hino Trucks, announced the launch of a dedicated zero-emission electric truck brand named 'Tern,' for the US market.
Tern is the result of the new long-term agreement between Hexagon Purus and Hino Trucks valued at up to two billion USD and is designed to facilitate a seamless transition to electrification for the US commercial vehicle sector. Manufactured at Hexagon Purus' new facility in Dallas, Texas, the Tern RC8 is set to enter serial production in late 2024.
"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 Tern RC8, based on Hino’s XL Series 4x2 chassis, integrates Hexagon Purus' zero-emission technology, including proprietary battery systems, auxiliary modules, and power modules. For optimal efficiency, it features an e-Axle from Dana and battery cells supplied by Panasonic Energy, initially produced in Japan before moving to De Soto, Kansas in 2026.
Furthermore, the Tern RC8 features a fully battery-electric platform with a compact 4,191 mm wheelbase and a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 30,844 kg or 30.8 tonnes. It is powered by two Hexagon Purus Gen3 battery packs with a total capacity of 269 kWh in a 750-volt, 538-kWh configuration, ensuring high performance and range for most duty cycles. The truck boasts a charging capacity of 241 kW, allowing for an 80 percent charge in under two hours. Lastly, its motors deliver a peak power of 680 hp and a continuous power of 494 hp along with an earth-shattering peak torque of 51,995 Nm.
Electric trucks are a long way away from reaching our shores, but, developments like the Tern RC8 give us hope that electrification can soon reach our heavy-duty commercial vehicles in the Philippines. If you want to check out Hino Motors’ local offerings, check out the Hino Truck Guide on TruckDeal.com and search for the truck that will mobilize your business.
