Kenworth, a well-known heavy-duty truck manufacturer, will be celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. To mark this milestone, the company has planned a series of events and is set to release two special-edition trucks. Kenworth was established in 1923 by Harry W. Kent and Edgar K. Worthington, who incorporated the Gersix Motor Company as Kenworth. The name Kenworth was created by combining the first few letters of the founders’ surnames. Additionally, the company’s iconic “bug” logo was derived from the first letters of Kent and Worthington’s surnames.

When Kenworth was established in 1923, it produced 78 six-cylinder gasoline-powered trucks in its first year. Over the course of the last century, Kenworth has grown to become a major player in the heavy-duty truck manufacturing industry, having produced more than 1 million vehicles since its inception.

“Kenworth’s storied history over the past 100 years provides much to be proud about. From being the first U.S. truck manufacturer to offer a diesel engine as standard equipment in 1933, to selling Kenworth trucks with an electric powertrain today, it’s been quite a journey,” Kenworth general manager and Paccar vice-president Kevin Baney said in a release.

“We’re also especially proud of our leadership in truck aerodynamics with the Kenworth T600 introduction in 1985. That model began the revolution in fuel-efficient trucks, and its evolution has tremendously advanced in the new flagship T680 that sets [the] industry standard today in truck aerodynamics.”

Kenworth, as part of its 100th-anniversary celebration, is introducing a T680 Signature Edition that can be included with all T680s manufactured this year. This special edition model boasts several features, including a black interior with red stitching accents throughout the cab and sleeper, a Kenworth 100-branded Gt703 seat with red accents, a unique brushed platinum dash and door trim, and the Kenworth 100 logo stitched into the back wall of the sleeper. These special touches will distinguish the T680 Signature Edition from the regular models and provide customers with a unique and commemorative experience.

In addition to the special interior features, the T680 Signature Edition model will also have several unique exterior elements. It will come equipped with a black onyx grille and side air intake, and will showcase Kenworth 100 badges on the sleeper. For the mid-roof configuration, there will be an optional Kenworth 100 exhaust shield cutout and anodized grille mesh available. Customers can also choose to include Alcoa wheels with distinctive spoke patterns in either Dura-Bright or Dura-Black finishes. Furthermore, Kenworth will be releasing four new signature paint colors for all Class 8 and medium-duty models, including Century Platinum, Century Black Red, Century Red, and Century Gold, giving customers even more customization options.

Limited edition W900

To further commemorate its centennial milestone, Kenworth is producing a limited edition W900 model with many of the same special features as the T680 Signature Edition. However, only 900 of these limited edition trucks will be built and the entire allotment has already been reserved. This exclusive W900 edition is a testament to Kenworth’s history and legacy within the heavy-duty truck manufacturing industry, and is sure to be a highly sought-after collectible for those lucky enough to own one.

“The Kenworth W900 is an all-time classic and iconic truck in the industry that is still admired on the road and at truck shows,” said Jim Walenczak, Kenworth assistant general manager for sales and marketing. “As a long-time staple of Kenworth’s history, there is no better way to kick off our year-long 100th anniversary celebration than by launching this Kenworth W900 Limited Edition.”

To celebrate its 100th anniversary, Kenworth has made updates to its website, which now features a dedicated section called “Kenworth 100.” This section is accessible directly at www.Kenworth100.com, and provides visitors with a variety of content related to the company’s centennial. Users can access information on the Special Edition trucks, Kenworth’s history, branded merchandise, and even kid-friendly content. With these updates, Kenworth is giving its customers and fans a chance to engage with the brand’s rich history and to learn more about its products and legacy.

W900 Limited Edition (Photo: Kenworth)