The first of two fully electric Cleanaway waste collections vehicles have begun kerbside collections in Victoria as part of a three-month trial.
The first vehicle began servicing household collections in Hobsons Bay. City of Greater Geelong and Moonee Valley will also host the vehicle to ensure it is tested across a variety of terrain and in different municipal settings.
Cleanaway CEO Vik Bansal said the vehicles are among the first in Australia to service kerbside collections, and will be under pressure to carry full loads and complete scheduled runs every day.
“With almost 5000 vehicles on the road each day, servicing homes and businesses all over Australia, we are looking for ways to do that more sustainably while continuing to deliver consistent service,” Mr Bansal said.
“Sustainability is about more than removing emissions at all costs. If service levels drop or waste collection costs increase significantly for ratepayers – that isn’t sustainable.”
Cleanaway Head of Fleet Paul Young said the company is optimistic about proving the reliability of the technology.
“The trial is designed to encourage fast learning so the electric vehicles can continue operating once the trial has ended, allowing Cleanaway to introduce more electric and combination fuel vehicles to the permanent fleet,” Mr Young said.
“With zero emissions, the vehicles are expected to run for 180-200 kilometres before needing to recharge. The brakes also regenerate – reducing repair and maintenance costs and the consumption of other parts like brake pads.”
According to Mr Young, the vehicles significantly reduce noise, making early morning or late-night collections possible for some waste streams.
Hobsons Bay Mayor Jonathon Marsden said the trial complements the great work already happening in the sustainable transport realm.
“These initiatives support our key priorities in the Hobsons Bay 2030 Community Vision of exploring sustainable practices and growth through innovation, technology, job creation and education,” Mr Marsden said.
“It’s also a step in the right direction of council’s draft Waste and Litter Management Strategy 2025 to trial alternative fuels in the waste, recycling and litter collection fleet.”
The vehicles were commissioned by Cleanaway in conjunction with SEA Electric and Superior Pak and are not yet in mass production.
Related stories:
- Cleanaway releases FY19 half-year results
- Tough as nails: Cleanaway acquires Liebherr wheel loaders
- Veolia acquires two companies from Cleanaway joint venture buyout