The new extreme-duty vocational truck replaces the long-running C500 and is designed for the most demanding off-highway applications, with production scheduled to begin in 2027.
Kenworth introduced its new C580 extreme-duty vocational truck during the ConExpo-Con/Agg trade show in Las Vegas on March 3.
The truck replaces the long-running Kenworth C500, which is scheduled to sunset in 2026 after more than five decades of service in some of the toughest vocational environments worldwide.
Production of the C580 is expected to begin in January 2027, continuing Kenworth’s presence in the extreme-duty off-highway segment.
“The Kenworth C580 marks a new era in extreme-duty performance, capable of hauling a gross combination weight of up to one million pounds,” said Kevin Haygood, Kenworth assistant general manager for sales and marketing. “For more than 50 years, the C500 set the benchmark in severe-service applications around the world. With the C580, we honor that legacy while delivering a more capable and technologically advanced truck that meets the expectations of today’s vocational customers.”
A Legacy Platform Evolves
According to Kenworth, the new C580 carries forward the legacy of the Kenworth C500, which debuted in 1972 and developed a reputation as one of the most rugged vocational trucks ever produced.
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Over the decades, the C500 has operated in challenging environments around the world. It has seen service from Arctic oilfields to Southeast Asian logging operations and Amazonian heavy-haul applications.
“These trucks have been to the Arctic in the oilfields; in Borneo hauling logs and coal; in Asia transporting massive mining equipment; and deep in the Amazon hauling transformers,” Haygood said. “They’ve gone where no other truck could go, and now the new C580 will do the same.”
Built for the Toughest Vocational Applications
According to Kenworth, the new truck builds on the durability and capability that made the C500 a staple in severe-service industries such as mining, oilfield operations, logging, and heavy equipment transport. The new model also incorporates modern technology and driver-focused features found in Kenworth’s current cab platforms.
The C580 is designed specifically for extreme-duty, off-highway vocational applications. Kenworth said it remains the only OEM currently serving this niche segment, with the C580 standing alone in its class.
Expanded Powertrain and Drivetrain Options
The truck can be configured with single- or twin-steer front axles, along with front-drive axle options that enable 4×4, 6×6, 8×8, and 10×10 drivetrain configurations.
The C580 can be configured with single- or twin-steer front axles, along with front-drive axle options that enable 4×4, 6×6, 8×8, and 10×10 drivetrain configurations.
Credit:
Kenworth Truck Company
Twin steer axles can support up to 44,000 pounds, while tandem rear axles are rated for as much as 165,000 pounds.
Power for North American models will come from Cummins X15 engines, rated up to 605 horsepower and 2,050 lb.-ft. of torque.
For export markets, additional Cummins X15 variants with different levels of Euro emissions compliance will be available.
Kenworth will offer a range of transmission options for the C580, including manual gearboxes and Allison 4000 and 6000 Series automatics. In addition, what Kenworth said is a first for the extreme-duty segment, the Eaton Endurant XD Pro automated transmission will also be available.
The truck also features a 1,780-square-inch cooling module engineered for high-horsepower performance in demanding environments such as high-altitude operations, extreme heat, or stationary heavy-duty work.
Modern Cab and Technology
While engineered for severe-duty environments, the C580 also introduces a modernized cab based on Kenworth’s latest vocational platform.
Key upgrades include a larger windshield, improved hood slope for better forward visibility, and increased space between the seats. A 15-inch customizable digital driver display provides access to vehicle gauges and critical operational data.
Additional features include standard heated LED headlamps, designed to improve visibility and safety in harsh weather conditions.
The truck is also equipped with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and TruckTech+ Remote Diagnostics, allowing fleets to monitor vehicle health and performance data in real time.
Durability is also a central design focus. The C580 incorporates double-wrapped abrasion-resistant wiring harnesses, sheet metal hood and fenders, robust five-piece crossmembers, and full-length parent frame rails that extend to the front of the chassis.
Kenworth said the truck’s electrical architecture aligns with other models in its vocational lineup, enabling easier integration of power takeoffs, auxiliary lighting, remote throttle controls, and body-specific equipment.
“With the launch of the C580, Kenworth continues to offer the most complete vocational lineup in the industry,” Haygood said. “From the medium-duty T280 to the extreme-duty C580, Kenworth offers the right truck for every job.”
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