Due for production in September, the T404S is already being
enthusiastically welcomed by transport operators in need of more
horsepower, more payload and more trailer length in a truck with a
short bumper to back of cab (B.B.C.) dimension.
These gains have been achieved through a number of design
innovations and improvements to one of Kenworth’s most
popular selling trucks, the T404, and at no additional cost. The
T404S has been designed specifically to suit 48’ trailers,
and is the ideal choice for customers requiring a lightweight but
powerful workhorse.
Kenworth remains in a unique position in the trucking industry.
Being Australian designed and manufactured, Kenworth trucks can not
only meet the demands of Australia’s harsh environment, but
they can also meet the specific requirements of Australian
customers.
The key to Kenworth’s continuing success as
Australia’s leading heavy duty truck manufacturer is summed
up by Kenworth’s Director, Sales & Marketing, Joe
Rizzo.
“We listen to our customers,” he said. “We
have developed many trucking innovations over the years, simply by
listening and acting on customer requests. And our latest model
– the T404S – is no different,” he said.
“Our engineers have worked hard to refine one of our best
models. The T404S combines a light tare weight with
high-performance, fuel-efficient engines and a short B.B.C.
dimension, so that it can handle a variety of single and B-Double
applications – particularly pocket B-Doubles - that are
normally reserved for bigger trucks.”
“The new specifications will benefit both drivers, with
improved comfort and safety, and operators with improved
productivity and profitability,” Mr Rizzo added.
Kenworth’s engineering improvements include a redesigned
bonnet and cab, with the cab moved 250 mm forward compared to the
T404 and a new roof profile that allows greater swing clearance for
refrigerated motors.
The T404S is available with a range of engines, including the
Cummins ISX, Caterpillar C-15 or Detroit Series 60 12.7 litre
engines, delivering up to 500 hp with 1750 lb/ft of torque. The
model is available in four different cab configurations. The
options include the Day Cab – (2840 mm bumper to back of
cab); the integrated IT 28” cab – (3430 mm BBC); the
integrated 36” Flat Roof – ( 3700 mm BBC); and the top
of the line and most popular cab configuration, the Aero 36”
- (recessed back 3700 mm BBC).
The T404S has retained all of the winning features of the
original model, including aerodynamic air intakes with two inlets
to increase air flow for the higher-powered engines and a number of
driver safety and comfort appointments, such as a one-piece curved
windscreen and Daylite doors for improved visibility. The
ergonomically-designed dashboard is curved to allow the driver
easier access to all switches and radios, without having to stretch
or reach unduly.
Mr Rizzo said that the T404S had already drawn strong support
from the market. “It’s early days, but we have been
receiving a steady stream of orders for the T404S, based on the
strength of the new specifications and our reputation for
delivering quality and innovation,” he explained.
Mr Rizzo says that the T404S, while representing
state-of-the-art trucking technology, is just another example of
Kenworth delivering innovative solutions to meet customer needs
– a heritage started 30 years ago with the legendary Kenworth
SAR (which stood for “Short bonneted Australian Righthand
drive”). This was one of the first trucks designed and built
by Kenworth in Australia in the early 1970s.
“The SAR is testament to Kenworth’s reputation for
building trucks that are tough, reliable and durable, and most
importantly, fit for purpose. You can still find SARs, pulling
their weight, across Australia 30 years later. That philosophy is
built into every vehicle we produce – and our latest
short-bonneted T404S will continue this proud Kenworth
tradition,” he observed.
Kenworth trucks are designed and manufactured in Australia to
meet the world’s toughest applications. Kenworth, a division
of PACCAR Australia, is the market leader in heavy duty trucks in
Australia. Its trucks are also exported to Papua New Guinea and New
Zealand. PACCAR Inc is a worldwide manufacturer of heavy and medium
duty trucks under the Kenworth, Peterbilt, DAF, Leyland and Foden
nameplates. It also provides financial services and distributes
truck parts related to its principal business.
For further information contact:
Neil Willox
Marketing Services Manager
PACCAR Australia
Phone: (03) 9721 1500
Email: neil.willox@paccar.com