Hexagon Purus in partnership with Hino Trucks, proudly announces the launch of Tern, a dedicated zero-emission truck brand along with their inaugural vehicle model, the RC8, a groundbreaking battery electric Class 8 tractor tailored for the U.S. market. This innovative semi-tractor leverages Hexagon Purus' years of development of zero-emission drivetrains for heavy-duty trucks.  

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 U.S. commercial vehicle sector. Manufactured in Hexagon Purus' new facility in Dallas, Texas, the Tern RC8 is scheduled for serial production in late 2024. 

Built on Hino's proven XL Series 4x2 chassis and equipped with Hexagon Purus' cutting-edge zero-emission technology, Tern exemplifies innovation with its proprietary battery systems, auxiliary modules, and power modules. The vehicle leverages a U.S. assembled Hino chassis, 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, ensuring reliability, American sourcing, and top-tier performance.

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.