Japanese legacy automaker Toyota Group, through its subsidiary Hino Trucks, partnered with Tier 1 supplier Hexagon Purus for the nationwide dealer rollout of the Tern Class 8 electric semi. According to the press release, Hino Trucks will be the exclusive distributor of the new model in the United States.
Toyota electrifies the road with Tern e-trucks
The new Tern brand of heavy-duty electric trucks is a joint venture between Toyota Group’s Hino Trucks and Hexagon Purus. It formally launched at the Advanced Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo on May 20, 2024.
The partners plan to deploy the brand’s inaugural model, the Tern RC8 electric semi, in the US market through Toyota Group’s Hino Trucks. The company will give the brand access to over 200 heavy truck dealers and their customers in the country.
“Our collaboration 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. We are excited to be the exclusive distributor for Tern with an initial distribution focus in California, where fleet electrification is imperative.”
Glenn Ellis, Hino Trucks President and CEO
According to the report, the new battery-electric Class 8 tractor utilizes Hexagon Purus’ years of zero-emission drivetrain development for such vehicles. In addition, it delivers a preferred option for fleet drivers electrifying their practical routes.
Tern RC8 electric semi
Tern’s RC8 electric semi rides on the US-assembled XL Series 4×2 chassis developed by Hino Trucks. It also boasts Hexagon Purus’ innovative zero-emission technology. Meanwhile, Panasonic Energy supplies the battery cells initially produced in Japan before relocating production to the De Soto factory in Kansas from 2026 onwards.
Presented below are some of the key specifications of the new Tern RC8:
- “A 100% battery-electric platform with an industry-leading short wheelbase of 165 inches
- A gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 68,000 lbs. targeting applications of approximately 200 miles in regional city duty cycles, addressing 95 percent of use cases
- Dual Hexagon Purus Gen3 269kWh battery packs in a 750-volt, 538 kWh configuration, providing substantial power and range for targeted duty cycles
- Recharge rate of 241 kW
- Peak/continuous horsepower of 680hp/494hp
- Peak torque 38,350 ft/lbs”
“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.”
Morten Holum, Hexagon Purus CEO
Serial production start
The Tern RC8 electric semi undergoes production in Hexagon Purus’ new factory in Dallas, Texas.
The press release indicated that the new electric semi will start serial production in late 2024.
The brand’s offerings will be exclusive through Hino’s dealer network, guaranteeing solid support and service.
Notably, the Tern’s market launch aligns with California’s Advanced Clean Fleets regulation. It offers fleets an enticing choice to decarbonize their supply chain, particularly in key areas such as metro-regional routes and food and beverage logistics.
