Kenworth Truck Co. made several announcements related to its medium-duty lineup Thursday, March 11, during a press conference at The Work Truck Show, which is sponsored by the National Truck Equipment Association. The company announced enhanced multiplex instrumentation, Kenworth Driver Information Center and modern dash styling; ratings for Paccar’s 2010 PX-6 and PX-8 engines; and a 16,000-lb.-rated front axle for the T370.

Also, the company’s T440 model made its public debut; Kenworth announced that it will add Bendix ESP (Electronic Stability Program), a full stability program, as an option on select medium-duty tractor and full truck applications with air brake systems; and the truck maker announced has its enhanced componentry packaging for its T270 Class 6 and T370 Class 7 diesel-electric hybrid models while also adding a new inverter design for 2010.

The new state-of-the-art multiplex instrumentation system – which can be ordered on all T170, T270 and T370 models with 2010 engines – provides increased serviceability and reliability with wiring behind the dash color-coded and numbered for easier servicing, and critical connections maintained with positive locking connectors. The system is supported by the Kenworth Electronic Service Analyst, a computer-based diagnostics tool that simplifies troubleshooting.

The multiplex system is incorporated into a more modern, visually appealing and ergonomic dash. A new speedometer and tachometer cluster features large 2-inch diameter gauges with chrome bezels, an engine hour meter, odometer, trip odometer and outside temperature gauge. A diesel particulate filter status indicator lamp, high exhaust-system temperature warning lamp and seatbelt reminder light are included. LED backlighting is used in the face plate and pointers, and the dash rocker switches contain LED indicator lights.

The Kenworth Driver Information Center provides instant trip access information for miles per gallon, engine and idle hours, idle percentage and optimum rpm range. A “sweet spot indicator” offers visual cues when the optimum rpm is reached, while a bar graph displays current mpg against trip average mpg.

The standard medium-duty dash panels are a high-quality gray cross-weave vinyl with silver and black accents; the door trim insert and louver trim remain black. Available as an option are dash panels that feature a Trust Walnut-colored woodgrain on the main dash panels as well as on the door trim insert and louver trim.

“The multiplex instrumentation increases performance and reliability,” says Jason Skoog, Kenworth director of marketing planning and research. “The Kenworth Driver Information Center is a cost-effective technology tool to help enhance fuel economy performance and reduce operating costs. The new dash offers updated modern, clean styling and improved functionality.”