Yorkshire firm develops first electrically-run bin lorry

A Yorkshire company has developed the first bin lorry in the world to be run on electrical power.

Rotherham and Sheffield-based Magtec said the lorry is due to shortly begin trials in Greenwich.

The trials will test the viability of the technology and make the economic case for repowering heavy commercial vehicles.

The prototype will be tested alongside the existing refuse fleet, managed by the Royal Borough of Greenwich.

Refuse lorries operate in largely residential areas, with their diesel engines in constant use 14 hours per day, achieving only 2.5 – 4.5miles per gallon, having emissions that include nitrogen oxide, carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons and particulate matter, which is essentially soot.

By replacing the diesel engine with an electric motor, the eRCV produces zero emissions in operation. It also greatly reduces noise pollution, a significant issue for urban residents says Magtec.
It is estimated that the repowering modification will double the vehicle’s operational life, extending it to 14 years, and generate a lifetime cost saving of up to £300,000 compared to an older diesel powered model.

Magtec, the UK’s largest supplier of electric vehicle drive systems, replaced the diesel engine and associated components of an Royal Borough of Greenwich -owned Mercedes Econic vehicle with an electric vehicle drivetrain. The company also replaced the engine-driven hydraulic system, which drives the rubbish compaction and bin lift systems, with an electric-powered system that is more efficient and quieter.

Leader of the Royal Borough of Greenwich, Cllr Danny Thorpe, said: “We are delighted to be part of the consortium to develop and trial the first 26 tonne repowered electric refuse vehicle in the world. Greenwich is at the forefront of developments in areas such as smart city innovation and smart mobility. I am particularly pleased that we are pioneering technology that will help address poor air quality.

“I am sure residents and pedestrians will also appreciate the quiet operation of the vehicles.  With this ground-breaking eRCV in operation, the loudest noise on the street on bin day in the future maybe the refuse collectors’ whistling.”

Magtec programme director, Simon Buckley added: “This is a UK first, and demonstrates Magtec’s commitment to innovation. Repowering a heavy goods vehicle with our electronic drivetrain not only extends its life, it also removes both noise and urban pollution.”