UK technology firm Magtec has installed an electric motor into a refuse collection vehicle in a bid to improve air quality in the borough of Greenwich. The upgrade is expected to extend the vehicle’s life by 14 years and save up to £300,000 compared to a Euro 5 or diesel model.
Greenwich council’s prototype electric refuse collection vehicle (eRCV) is now being trialled alongside its fleet to make a case for repowering heavy commercial vehicles.
The eRCV is a 26-tonne battery-powered vehicle that is intended to operate on a 14-hour shift without needing to recharge.
These partners are part of a consortium which also includes urban innovation agency DG Cities and Innovate UK.
Simon Buckley, Magtec’s programme director, says the repowered heavy goods vehicle will also help remove noise pollution.
