It's been a while since we've heard from Tern, the dedicated zero-emission truck brand first introduced at ACT 2024 with its debut vehicle, the Tern RC8.
[Related: Hino, Hexagon Puras bringing new entrant to Class 8 space]
Tern, a joint venture between Toyota's Hino Trucks and Hexagon Purus, has now unveiled its second offering in the RC8 range, the RC8 6x2 80k tractor.
With its focus on "practical electrification," Tern states in a LinkedIn post that the RC8 platform "consistently exceeded expectations" via real-world trials where drivers raved "about the high visibility and ultra-maneuverable cab/chassis—paired with unmatched responsive power, and a crisp, and quiet driving experience, calling it "ideal" for complex & crowded city routes."
That feedback helped Tern determine the industry needed a tandem 80k configuration "to better serve fleets requiring greater load flexibility."
The new RC8 variant delivers the same efficiency and driver-focused design of the RC8, but now engineered for heavier-duty applications that are ideal for higher GCW LTL, drayage, and a wide range of other uses.
And speaking of range, the RC8 has surpassed its original advertised 200-mile single-charge range by roughly 25 percent in real-world conditions, now delivering up to 260 miles. Just as impressive, the new variant lives up to its name with an 80,000-lb GVWR, compared to the original RC8's 68,000-lb GVWR.
Like the original Tern RC8 6x2, the 80k variant is powered by a dual-battery system featuring two Hexagon Purus Gen3 269-kWh packs, delivering a combined 538 kWh at 750 volts. This setup feeds a robust electric drivetrain producing up to 680 peak horsepower.
When it's time to recharge, the system supports fast charging from 0 to 80 percent in under two hours using a widely available 240-kW charger.
Tern clearly isn't wasting any time getting its latest to market. The OEM states that production will get underway in Q3 2026 with the first customer deliveries set for early 2027.
The 6x2 RC8 is now available for pre-order now and it qualifies for California's HVIP incentive funding, drayage-specific funding programs, and more.
