• EV Tech Insider
  • Posts
  • Electra launches first electric zero-emission waste vehicles

Electra launches first electric zero-emission waste vehicles

May 10, 2023

Electra Commercial Vehicles, a zero-emissions OEM based in Lancashire, has introduced its new 12.5-tonne eCargo, an electric waste vehicle platform. The eCargo vehicles, the first of their kind in their weight class in the UK, are designed with a short wheelbase (3330 mm), making them suitable for operators facing decarbonization challenges. This design is particularly beneficial for food waste collections.

The 12.5-tonne eCargo is designed with the operator in mind, with a layout and configuration aimed at reducing downtime and maintenance. Electra’s vehicles have a reduced maintenance requirement and a system that allows significant parts to be repaired or replaced in under 15 minutes.

Electra’s approach allows for the creation of a platform suited to any operation and application due to its scalable modular configuration. Electra is not limited to a single chassis or body manufacturer, allowing customers to create a truck tailored to their specific requirements.

The 12.5-tonne eCargo features a class-leading payload with a body and allowance of 7900 kg. It has 140 kWh of battery capacity and thermally managed batteries, enabling operation in -30- and +50- degree climates with a range of up to 250 km. The eCargo also has a 150 KW DC fast charge capability, allowing for double-shift operation or an extended range of over 100 miles in under an hour.

Electra’s vehicles come with an eight-year battery warranty and have V2L capability, meaning the trucks can charge other vehicles or supply 3-phase power for events.

The Electra eCargo is being offered to the UK market through an exclusive agreement with Guest Motors Limited, one of the UK’s largest commercial vehicle solution providers. Guest offers the full range of Electra commercial EVs through its network of Guest Truck & Van and Sherwood Truck & Van dealerships and service centres.

Basildon Council recently acquired the first fleet of seven 12.5-tonne Electra eCargo food waste vehicles, fitted with a Hillend Engineering Micro XHD body, which went into service in April 2023. The fleet has been provided with an innovative contract hire agreement with full service and maintenance from NRG Riverside.

Ben Smith, MD, of Electra Commercial Vehicles, commented: “The eCargo is the perfect solution to meet the requirements of the Government’s new food waste collections regulations nationwide, producing zero-emissions and with a lead-time of under a year. We offer strategic solutions for every waste application. We are the first to build electric waste collection vehicles in the 12.5-tonne weight range and size. We recognised that the configuration of different body types significantly impacts the truck’s size, design, and battery size and layout while also requiring an EPTO – all packed into a very short wheelbase. We are delighted that we can now offer our clients zero-emission trucks suited to small and busy roads in city centres and narrow precincts, ideally suited for the stringent demands of operations in ultra-low-emissions zones.”