The year 2024 proved to be pivotal for the trucking industry, filled with innovative truck launches and test drives that signal a bold future. As manufacturers prepare for the Phase 3 Greenhouse Gas Emissions regulations set to take effect in 2027, this year brought exciting new developments, groundbreaking concepts, and farewells to legacy models. Here’s a chronological look at the highlights that shaped the trucking landscape in 2024.
Hydrogen Hits the Streets: Nikola Tre
CES 2024 in Las Vegas set the stage for HDT’s first test drive of the year with the Nikola Tre hydrogen fuel cell cabover truck. Designed for heavy urban applications, the Tre’s maneuverability and driver visibility impressed, showcasing hydrogen powertrain technology’s potential for demanding city driving.
Volvo’s New Diesel Standard: 2025 VNL
Volvo Trucks North America unveiled its all-new VNL model in February, the first Class 8 diesel truck tailored for 2027’s emissions regulations. With bold American styling, advanced safety features, and driver-centric comforts, the VNL made a powerful statement about Volvo’s commitment to both innovation and environmental compliance.
Cummins Reinforces Diesel’s Role: X15 Engine
March saw Cummins launch its next-generation X15 engine, aligned with EPA and CARB’s 2027 emissions rules. Built on the new HELM platform, the X15 focuses on fuel efficiency, ease of maintenance, and regulatory compliance, reinforcing the relevance of diesel power in the evolving trucking industry.
Farewell to a Legend: Peterbilt Model 389
In a bittersweet moment, Peterbilt retired its iconic Model 389, replacing it with the Model 589. Rush Truck Centers marked the occasion by giving away the last-ever Model 389 in a sweepstakes benefiting the Wounded Warrior Project, honoring both the truck’s legacy and American veterans.
Medium-Duty Goes Electric: Daimler’s Rizon
Daimler introduced its Rizon division in May, unveiling the M-Series Class 4-5 electric trucks. With three versatile models—e18L, e16L, and e16M—Rizon offers innovative configurations tailored to customer needs, reflecting Daimler’s shift toward medium-duty EVs.
Zero-Emission Vocational Trucking: Hino-Hexagon Purus Tern
The ACT Expo in May was a hotbed for zero-emission truck launches, including the Hino-Hexagon Purus Tern, a Class 8 electric truck optimized for sub-200-mile routes. With a tight turning radius and a 4×3 chassis, the Tern targets urban vocational applications.
SuperTruck2: Kenworth’s Futuristic Marvel
Kenworth showcased its futuristic SuperTruck2 at ACT Expo. This cutting-edge concept truck boasts a center-steer driver’s position, spacious sleeper cab, and an impressive 13 mpg in hauling applications. Developed in collaboration with the Department of Energy, the SuperTruck2 pushes the boundaries of freight efficiency.
Lion Electric’s Heavy-Duty Milestone: Lion8
Canadian OEM Lion Electric launched the Lion8, a Class 8 electric tractor with a 127,000-lb GCWR and a daily range of up to 275 miles. Featuring state-of-the-art heavy-duty battery packs, the Lion8 offers rapid charging and redefines performance in the electric truck segment.
Freightliner Cascadia’s Fifth Evolution
Freightliner unveiled its fifth-generation Cascadia at the American Trucking Associations’ Management Conference. With over 1 million Cascadias on the road, the new model focuses on refining aerodynamics, improving fuel efficiency, and introducing advanced safety technologies to enhance driver and fleet profitability.
From groundbreaking hydrogen and electric innovations to a renewed focus on diesel’s role, 2024 highlighted the trucking industry’s drive toward sustainability, safety, and efficiency. As the sector gears up for stricter emissions standards, these developments showcase a transformative year in heavy-duty trucking.
Source:
https://www.truckinginfo.com/10232956/new-trucks-and-test-drives-2024-edition
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