Leeds Introduces Battery-Powered Trucks for Waste Collection

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In an inspiring step towards sustainability, Leeds City Council has proudly welcomed the first three battery-powered Mercedes-Benz eEconic trucks into its operational fleet. This significant addition marks a pivotal shift in the council’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and promoting cleaner air quality in the communities they serve.

Each electric truck is projected to save an impressive 15 tonnes of carbon dioxide annually, which totals a remarkable 45 tonnes across the three vehicles when compared to their diesel-powered counterparts. This transition not only contributes to the council’s environmental goals but also enhances the air quality for Leeds residents, while reducing noise pollution in the neighbourhoods these trucks operate.

The electric trucks were supplied by FAUN Zoeller UK, a specialist in refuse collection vehicles. They join an already busy operation, where Leeds City Council dispatches a fleet of 75 trucks and crews six days a week, ensuring that waste collection and recycling services remain efficient and reliable for the community.

The Mercedes-Benz eEconic trucks will recharge overnight at the council’s eco-designed depot at Newmarket House. This strategic decision ensures that the vehicles are fully operational and ready to hit the streets each morning at 6 am, allowing for seamless waste collection operations.

Designed from the ground up as an electric vehicle, the eEconic boasts three battery packs with a total installed capacity of 336kWh, all covered by a six-year warranty. Notably, these batteries can be recharged from 20% to 80% in just 75 minutes, using a robust 400A 160kW charger, making them an efficient choice for urban waste management.

Beyond their environmental credentials, the eEconic trucks are equipped with a host of modern features designed to enhance both operator comfort and safety. Standard equipment includes a Multimedia Cockpit with dual display screens, an electronic parking brake, Keyless Go functionality, and LED headlights. Additionally, a suite of advanced safety systems, including Sideguard Assist, Active Brake Assist 5, Lane Keeping Assist, and Reversing Assistance, are integrated into the vehicle to ensure maximum safety during operations.

Operators will also benefit from a six-year connectivity package, providing free access to a range of digital support services that will streamline operations and enhance the overall efficiency of waste management in Leeds.

John Woolmer, Chief Environmental Services Officer, expressed his enthusiasm for the new electric trucks, stating:

“Collecting domestic waste and recycling with these new electric trucks will mean that over 45 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions will be saved per year. This will contribute to the Leeds clean air strategy that aims to reduce air pollution from homes, industry, agriculture, and transport by 2030.”

He further added, “It is calculated that the council’s household waste management operations across Leeds already contribute an annual carbon saving of 30,000 tonnes, and beginning the move of RCVs to electric will not only add to that but also help promote and show leadership for the city on this agenda.”

Councillor Mohammed Rafique, Executive Member for Communities, Housing and Environment, also shared his excitement about the introduction of the all-electric bin wagons:

“We are very excited to see the first all-electric bin wagons working in the streets and neighbourhoods of Leeds. In the same year we introduced glass recycling through our green bins, these brand-new vehicles are part of our journey to provide the cleanest, greenest and most efficient service we can for our residents.”

This initiative by Leeds City Council exemplifies a growing trend among local governments to pursue innovative solutions for reducing their carbon footprint and enhancing local air quality. As the world grapples with the urgent need to address climate change, such measures not only contribute to national goals but also set a precedent for other cities to follow suit.

The integration of electric vehicles into municipal fleets is a powerful testament to the council’s commitment to sustainability and community well-being. As the council continues to advance its clean air strategy, the addition of the eEconic trucks is a significant leap towards a greener future.

As we look ahead, the residents of Leeds can anticipate not only improved waste management services but also a healthier environment. The city’s investment in electric vehicles signifies a forward-thinking approach to urban living, and serves as an important reminder of the collective responsibility we share in combatting climate change.

In conclusion, the introduction of these electric refuse collection vehicles is a landmark achievement for Leeds City Council, as they work diligently towards a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future. The positive impact of this initiative will resonate throughout the community, inspiring other regions to consider similar environmentally friendly practices.

Stay tuned to Net Zero News for more updates on how cities across the globe are making strides towards achieving net-zero emissions and creating healthier environments for all.