A product of the new long-term agreement between Hexagon Purus and Hino Trucks, valued at up to approximately $2 billion, Tern is designed to deliver a seamless transition to electrification for the US commercial vehicle sector. Manufactured in Hexagon Purus' new facility in Dallas, Texas, the Tern RC8 is scheduled for serial production in late 2024.
Tern RC8 is based on Hino's XL Series 4 x 2 chassis and is equipped with Hexagon Purus' zero-emission technology, featuring proprietary battery systems, auxiliary modules, and power modules. The Tern RC8 also features an e-Axle from Dana for optimum efficiency and battery cells supplied and manufactured by Panasonic Energy, initially in Japan before transitioning to De Soto, Kansas from 2026 onwards.
“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” said Morten Holum, CEO of Hexagon Purus. “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.”
Key features of the Tern RC8 include:
A 100 percent 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 trucks will be available exclusively through the Tern dealer network and will utilize Hino's network ensuring total support and service. The launch aligns with the Advanced Clean Fleets regulation in California and gives fleets an excellent option to decarbonize their supply chain, especially in target applications like metro-regional routes, food & beverage logistics and similar routes where the tight turning radius and popular 4 x 2 offer chassis practical benefits.
“Our partnership with Hexagon Purus introduces a highly reliable Class 8, 4 x 2 tractor option into the electric truck market, catering to a wide range of applications” added Glenn Ellis, President of Hino Trucks. “We are excited to see Tern launched in California, where fleet electrification is imperative.”
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