eRCV - energy efficient electric heavy-duty refuse collection vehicle for urban zones

The eRCV project has the vision of developing and demonstration a concept for an innovative, fully electric heavy-duty (up to tons GVW) refuse collection vehicle (RCV) specifically designed for optimal, energy efficient and environmentally friendly use in urban environments. A bespoke and cost-optimized truck chassis built for intensive and frequent refuse collection operations is equipped with an energy efficient, robust and reliable electric driveline system with sufficient battery capacity to power daily vehicle operations. The aim is to develop an internationally leading concept meeting the demands for a cost-effective, green, silent and ergonomically optimal solution for garbage collection.

The eRCV project develops and demonstrates a novel and cost-competitive solution meeting the requirements for equipment used in modern refuse handling. The eRCV solution responds to a market trend towards battery electric transport solution with innovative technical elements in particular relating to: (1) industrial manufacturing of large-scale mobile battery packages, (2) integration of components for mobile electric drivelines, and (3) system integration based on cost-efficient sourcing and manufacturing.

Development and demonstration aims are:

• Mid 2017: proof-of-principle prototype of battery package and electronic drivelines
• End 2017: functional eRCV prototype construction and test
• Mid 2018 – End 2019: eRCV pilot series production test