![Mercedes-Benz_eActros_600_(1)[1]](https://d2cohhpa0jt4tw.cloudfront.net/Pictures/274x183/8/1/8/17818_mercedesbenz_eactros_600_11_556244.jpg)
Salford City Council has added its first all-electric refuse collection truck to its fleet – a 27-tonne Mercedes-Benz eEconic.
The council chose the wagon after “an extensive evaluation programme” during which it completed rounds on a single charge and returned to the depot with 40-60% battery capacity remaining and outperformed all other models
At 27 tonnes when fully loaded – one tonne more than the typical 26-tonne diesel equivalent – the eEconic collects 1,200 bins per day as part of the council’s 36-truck fleet.
Alan Fitzsimons, Salford City Council transport manager, said the truck was “leaps and bounds above the rest”.
“During our demonstration period, it completed every route with battery range to spare, while competitors struggled to finish on a single charge,” he said.
“It is 100% electric, and the range and regenerative braking is excellent.
“It has surpassed all our expectations and we’re proud to lead the way in sustainable waste collection for Salford residents.”
Anthony Kearns, HGV driver and trainer at Salford City Council, said: “My biggest worry was whether it would complete the route, but on my longest day, when I travel 60 miles and take three loads totalling 30 tonnes, it still has 36% battery left after seven hours.
“It’s much quieter than a diesel, cooler in summer, smoother to drive and a real pleasure for city streets,” he added.
