100% electric refuse collection vehicles being trialled in Wiltshire
It's part of the Council's bid to be carbon neutral by 2030
Last updated 12th Jan 2025
Fully electric waste collection vehicles are being trialled across Wiltshire as the Council explores their wider use.
It's part of their bid to reduce carbon emissions and to modernise it's fleet of waste collection vehicles.
The Council is aiming to become carbon neutral by 2030.
The Volvo FE Low Entry Cab RCV are being trialled at operating depots and assigned to household waste collection rounds, beginning in more rural areas of Chippenham and Calne,
A later trial will come in Salisbury, for an assessment of the vehicle in a semi-urban, semi-rural location.
Cllr Dominic Muns, Cabinet Member for Waste and Environment, said “This is an exciting collaboration with Volvo Trucks, which has a wealth of experience in the electric vehicle market. The 100% electric RCV contributes to cleaner air as it does not produce exhaust gas. This trial brings us a step closer to achieving our mission to modernise the council’s waste collection fleet to low carbon vehicles and ultimately to reduce carbon emissions.
“This trial will establish what percentage of collection routes could realistically be achieved with an electric vehicle, fully testing the capabilities of eRCVs in Wiltshire. It will play a significant role in determining the future procurement of waste collection vehicles and how they can potentially be utilised across the county.
“We can’t wait to see it on the road soon throughout our communities across the county.”