Peter Ahrens has been promoted to General Manager of Kenworth Truck Company and PACCAR Vice President, effective July 1, 2026.
Ahrens moves into the top job after serving as Kenworth’s Assistant General Manager of Operations, part of a 15‑year career with PACCAR that has included roles in product marketing, parts operations, and a term as Managing Director at Leyland Trucks in the UK.
Ahrens said he is “honored and excited” to lead the company at a time when truck manufacturers are navigating rapid advances in powertrain technology, connectivity, and safety systems. He emphasized Kenworth’s long‑standing focus on quality, innovation, and state‑of‑the‑art technology, adding that he intends to build on that foundation as customer needs evolve.
In an additional company move, Joe Adams has been appointed Assistant General Manager of Operations, succeeding Ahrens in the role.
Adams brings 26 years of PACCAR experience, most recently as Kenworth’s Chief Engineer, where he oversaw engineering programs across cab, electrical, and exterior development. His background also includes leadership roles in purchasing and embedded engineering across PACCAR’s North American operations.
Founded in 1923, Kenworth remains a major player in the heavy‑ and medium‑duty truck market, with ongoing development in clean diesel, zero‑ and near‑zero‑emissions vehicles, connected truck systems, and advanced driver assistance technologies. The company is a subsidiary of PACCAR.
Company information may be found at www.kenworth.com.