Peterbilt this week updated its electric Model 579 to include more range and a brand new electric powertrain.
Building on the diesel Model 579 platform, the next-generation Model 579EV is aimed at haul and drayage segments and features three battery capacity options with a maximum range of 200 miles – up from 150 miles in the current generation.
A 350kW DC charging system enables 80% charge in just over an hour and a half. That's a major improvement over the 150 kW DC system on current generation trucks that can fully recharge the battery in approximately 3 hours.
A three-stage regenerative brake helps pump energy back into the lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries while underway.
The interior design features laser-etched trim panels and gray stitching on the EV-exclusive Platinum Ionic Gray interior.
Safety enhancements for new models include a new electronic parking brake and now-standard Bendix Fusion Stop & Auto-Go Advanced, which uses a new forward-facing camera and upgraded software to enhance collision mitigation for both moving and stationary vehicles. It also features automatic headlight brightness adjustment.
The EV uses the same cab as the diesel but the exterior design of the 579EV features a BEV exclusive grille pattern with a distinctive bar pattern with blue accents. The hood features side panels where air vents would be on diesel units with bright bezels and blue accents.
A 13-inch digital information display serves as the truck's connectivity hub and houses the infotainment. A 15-inch screen, standard in all 579 models, has been updated for the BEV to include a power regeneration and usage, and range estimates.
New powertrain removes eAxles
The 579EV is powered by the same all-new Paccar electric powertrain found in the 567EV, which made its debut this week.
The driveline uses a mid-mounted eMotor with dual electric motors and integrated 3-speed transmission and multiple power options are available up to 605 horsepower and 1,850 lb.-ft. of torque.
The centrally driven powertrain gives Peterbilt more flexibility and wheelbase options.
"There's a motor where the transmission would be on a diesel truck and that motor has everything packaged into it to drive the truck," said Patrick Wallace, electric vehicle marketing manager for Peterbilt. "It has three forward gears. It has one reverse gear. It has an inverter. What that allows us to do, instead of using an eAxle, is we can utilize our conventional driveline. If we do that, we can use all the suspensions that we need. We can run all the rear axles that customers want."
The motors feature an inclinometer that allow the truck to start off in first gear under heavy load or on a steep grade. Otherwise, the truck starts in second gear to maximize efficiency at cruise.
"Great performance," Wallace said of Paccar's new EV powertrain. "Even better that diesel in some applications."
