WionDrive News Desk 
In a strategic move to bolster its presence in the electric commercial vehicle market, Toyota Group and Tier 1 supplier Hexagon Purus have announced a joint venture to introduce the Tern brand of heavy-duty electric trucks. The new partnership has appointed Hino Trucks, another Toyota Group brand, as the exclusive distributor for Tern’s electric semi-trucks in the United States.
Hino Trucks brings a nationwide network of more than 200 heavy truck dealers to the table, providing a robust distribution channel for the Tern electric trucks and access to a wide range of commercial customers. Glenn Ellis, President and CEO of Hino Trucks, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “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.”
The flagship product, the Tern RC8 electric truck, boasts impressive specifications tailored for practical commercial applications. With a 68,000 lb. GVWR, a powerful 680 peak horsepower electric motor (494 continuous), and a 200-mile range, the RC8 aims to meet the demanding requirements of the trucking industry. Additionally, the truck features dual Hexagon Purus Gen3 269kWh battery packs in a 750-volt, 538 kWh configuration, enabling rapid charging from 0-80% in less than two hours at 240 kW.
The announcement of the Tern electric semi-truck and the nationwide dealer rollout through Hino Trucks comes at a pivotal time, coinciding with California’s Advanced Clean Fleets regulation. The unveiling took place at the ACT Expo in Las Vegas, a prominent event for the commercial vehicle industry. Serial production for the Tern RC8 is scheduled to commence later this year.
While Toyota has faced criticism for its stance on electric vehicles (EVs) in the passenger car market, the company’s investment in the Tern electric semi-truck venture with Hexagon Purus demonstrates a commitment to embracing electrification in the commercial vehicle sector. This strategic move positions Toyota Group and its brands to capitalise on the growing demand for sustainable transportation solutions in the trucking industry.
