• Hexagon Purus and Hino Trucks launch Tern, a zero-emission truck brand with the RC8 model, featuring cutting-edge battery technology and a 100% electric platform, aimed at electrifying U.S. commercial vehicle fleets.
• The Tern RC8, built on Hino’s XL Series chassis, will begin production in late 2024, offering a GVWR of 68,000 lbs, a range of 200 miles, and significant support from Hino’s global service network.

Hexagon Purus in collaboration with Hino Trucks are proud to announce today at the Advanced Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo the launch of Tern, their dedicated zero emission truck brand with their inaugural vehicle model RC8 being developed specifically for use within U.S. markets. This revolutionary semi tractor leverages years of development by Hexagon Purus’ zero emission drivetrains as an appealing driver-preferred solution when electrifying routes that would normally operate using traditional driveshaft trucks.

Tern is part of Hexagon Purus and Hino Trucks’ new long-term agreement worth up to approximately $2 billion and intended to facilitate an effortless transition toward electrification in U.S. commercial vehicle sector. Manufactured at Hexagon Purus’ facility in Dallas, Texas; serial production will start by late 2024.

Tern is built upon Hino’s proven XL Series 4×2 chassis and equipped with Hexagon Purus’ cutting-edge zero emission technology to offer innovation through proprietary battery systems, auxiliary modules, and power modules. Assembled here in America by Hino itself for maximum efficiency; an eAxle from Dana ensures optimal efficiency; battery cells supplied and manufactured by Panasonic Energy are initially supplied from Japan but will soon move production facilities over to De Soto, Kansas in 2026 to guarantee American sourcing and top performance ensuring reliability, American manufacturing quality while remaining made here in America for maximum innovation and top performance!

“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% 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 only be sold through Tern dealers and will benefit from Hino’s global support and service network for optimal support and service. This launch coincides with California’s Advanced Clean Fleets regulation, providing fleets an ideal option to decarbonize their supply chains such as metro-regional routes or food & beverage logistics where their tight turning radius and 4×2 chassis offer practical benefits.

“Our partnership 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 see Tern launched in California, where fleet electrification is imperative,” remarked Glenn Ellis, President of Hino Trucks.

Tern brand marks a breakthrough moment for companies and the commercial trucking industry alike, moving towards zero emissions without compromising power or performance.