Sunderland launch the North East’s first electric refuse collection vehicle

18 Oct 2021 11:57 AM

NEPO have supported Sunderland City Council in buying the North East region’s first electric Refuse Collection Vehicle (eRCV).

The 27 tonne Dennis Eagle eCollect will deal with 20 tonnes of waste daily and is expected to clock up 10,000 miles every year. A 24-month trial will assess how the eRCV performs against a conventional diesel vehicle to inform Sunderland’s future approach to low carbon fleet.

The eRCV was procured via NEPO224 HGVs & Specialist Vehicles, NEPO’s nationally available procurement solution delivered in partnership with TPPL.

Ian Bell, Sunderland City Council's vehicle fleet manager, recently said:

"This is a very physical demonstration of the council’s continued commitment to clean air. EVs are good for the environment and recognised as saving money. This is not just in fuel costs because, when compared with older fossil fuel vehicles, EVs are also generally less expensive on servicing and regular maintenance, so there are many benefits for residents, for the council and our staff.”

Keith Lamb, Fleet Procurement Specialist at NEPO added:

“NEPO is proud to have supported Sunderland City Council in achieving this important milestone for the North East. NEPO and the twelve North East local authorities have worked in collaboration to embed low carbon options in the region’s fleet procurement. From engine conversions to electric charging infrastructure, we are committed to driving forward the public sector’s net zero ambitions.”