Dennis Eagle has introduced a smaller version of the electric refuse collection vehicle that the Warwick, UK-based manufacturer put into production in 2020.
The 4×2 eCollect is an 18-tonne model aimed at use in urban areas with restricted access, which Dennis says often suffer from poor air quality making moves towards zero-emissions vehicles urgent.
The 4×2 has a 10 cubic metre body capable of taking 4.8 tonnes of rubbish, the same as its diesel equivalent. It is also built around a narrow-track chassis, like its larger 6×2 sister model, ensuring it can easily manoeuvre in tight residential streets.
Three battery packs are fitted in contrast to the five of the 6×2, and are placed one on each side and one in the centre to ensure a balanced load. They provide the 200kW drivetrain – the same as in the 6×2 – with 180kWh of power, which Dennis states is ample to complete a typical double-shift daily round between charges.
Charging, through an outside 600v DC CCS2 connection, is considerably quicker than with the 6×2, the vehicle taking 3.5 hours to go from 15% to fully-charged.
The 4×2 eCollect is fitted with a 5-star DVS rated Elite 6 cab, which provides space for a driver and up to three crew. It also is supplied as standard with a DE-Connect telematics system which Dennis says is industry-leading.
Testing and homologation of the 4×2 eCollect has included trialling a vehicle in the Kensington & Chelsea borough in London. Over a period in the spring the vehicle was put on a variety of collection routes, travelling around 35 miles a day which is representative of the urban market the vehicle is being aimed at. The trial vehicle typically returned after a double-shift with between 30-35% of its charge remaining.
Dennis also pointed out other advantages of using the electric vehicle – it completed its rounds more quickly due to the instant acceleration from its drivetrain, helping traffic flow, and its virtually silent operation was less disturbing for residents.
