Amrep, a Wastequip brand, recently partnered with commercial electric vehicle manufacturer BYD (Build Your Dreams) to develop and deliver a commercially sold all-electric refuse truck in residential refuse operation. The Class 8R automated side-loader (ASL) all-electric truck will be used by Waste Resources Inc., a subsidiary of Waste Resource Technologies Inc. (WRT), to serve the city of Carson, Calif.

“Electric collection trucks are part of our strategy to use clean, green and sustainable technologies for waste collection, processing and conversion. We applaud the city of Carson, Calif., for allowing us the opportunity to roll out these technologically advanced collection vehicles,” said Tommy Gendal, chief operating officer of WRT and Waste Resources, in a statement.

This truck, which was designed to meet growing hauler and regulatory demands for more environmentally friendly equipment, combines the best of cutting-edge technology with Amrep’s reputation for durability, quality and service, noted Amrep. With a body built by Amrep and a cab and chassis by BYD, this heavy-duty truck features a propriety electric propulsion system designed specifically for refuse service and Amrep’s patented integrated automatic arm, which optimizes weight distribution and ensures the highest payloads. Its ability to lift the can vertically and return it to any position without retracting the arm minimizes street spillage.

“As the waste truck body of choice for private and municipal haulers alike, especially in the critical West Coast market, Amrep has earned a reputation for its unsurpassed and personal service, listening to customers and standing by its products,” said Eric Mattson, Amrep vice president and general manager, in a statement. “As the waste industry moves to become increasingly sustainable, clean energy, electric trucks are the future of the industry. Developing this electric truck is further evidence of Amrep leading the way in terms of delivering innovative and differentiated products.”

The ASL’s dual packer system gives operators the ability to dump containers while the packer is compacting, saving time and money, noted the companies. The companies also added that electric trucks have fewer moving parts than diesel fuel trucks, making them easier and more cost efficient to maintain and operate. Electric models are also quieter and operate with less vibration.

“WRT is a forward-thinking company that is embracing zero emission technology for the benefit of the communities they serve,” said John Gerra, BYD director of business development for electric trucks, in a statement. “We are proud to work with Amrep to provide them with trucks with no emissions and less noise.”

Based on the successful delivery of the truck, WRT has ordered another Amrep/BYD 8R and two Class 6R trucks. Both BYD and Amrep, as well as WRT, expect demand for these electric trucks to continue to grow over time, particularly as new sustainability regulations come into play.

The truck was on display at BYD’s booth at WasteExpo.