Salford City Council is setting a new benchmark in sustainable urban waste collection with the introduction of its first all-electric refuse collection vehicle (RCV), a 27-tonne Mercedes-Benz eEconic. Combining zero emissions with exceptional performance, the eEconic promises to redefine the daily realities of refuse collection.
The eEconic boasts a class-leading operational range of at least 150km on refuse routes, effortlessly returning to the depot with 40–60% battery capacity remaining. This impressive performance outshone all other models tested by Salford, highlighting the truck’s suitability for the stop-start demands of urban waste collection. At a fully loaded weight of 27 tonnes – just one tonne above the standard 26-tonne diesel counterpart – the eEconic handles more than 1,200 bins per day as part of the council’s 36-truck fleet.
Alan Fitzsimons, Transport Manager at Salford City Council, praised the eEconic’s performance: “During our demonstration, it completed every route with battery to spare, while competitors struggled to finish a single charge. The range, regenerative braking, and 100% electric operation have surpassed all our expectations. We’re proud to lead the way in sustainable waste collection for Salford residents.”
The council has been steadily transitioning its fleet to Mercedes-Benz, adding approximately one new vehicle per year to accommodate the city’s growing population. “Cost considerations previously led us to cheaper trucks,” Fitzsimons added, “but experience has shown that quality and reliability truly matter.”
Driver response has been overwhelmingly positive. Anthony Kearns, HGV driver and trainer, commented: “My longest day covers 60 miles and three loads totalling 30 tonnes. Even then, the eEconic still had 36% battery left after seven hours. Drivers often say, ‘It’s like the Rolls Royce of bin trucks.’ The cab is quieter, cooler in summer, smoother to drive, and the pre-heat function plus regenerative braking really make a difference.”
In a show of respect and civic pride, the eEconic also features a special ‘Lest We Forget’ livery during Armed Forces Week, marrying sustainable innovation with the council’s commitment to honour military service.
Heiko Selzam, Managing Director of Daimler Truck UK, emphasised the real-world benefits of the eEconic: “Salford’s feedback proves that electric trucks offer more than just sustainability. They deliver excellent range, quieter operation, and improved driver conditions, confirming that all-electric refuse trucks are ready for urban deployment.”
Salford City Council aims for net-zero by 2038, extending the operational life of refuse trucks from seven to ten years. This approach not only reduces maintenance and downtime but also aligns with the council’s broader sustainability goals, ensuring a cleaner, quieter, and more efficient future for the city.
The Mercedes-Benz eEconic – efficiency, comfort, and sustainability, all in one truck – shows that electric refuse collection isn’t the future; it’s the present.
