In a groundbreaking move towards sustainability, Mercedes-Benz has introduced the eEconic electric truck, a model poised to revolutionise waste management in Australia. Unveiled at the Brisbane Truck Show in 2023 and showcased at the Australasian Waste and Recycling Expo (AWRE), the eEconic is not just another electric vehicle; it represents a significant leap forward in the efficiency, safety, and environmental impact of urban waste collection.
A closer look at the eEconic
The eEconic 300 boasts a substantial 300 kilowatts of battery storage, distributed across three 100-kilowatt battery packs. This impressive power is managed through DC charging, which converts to AC current via an inverter before energising the truck’s innovative E-axle. The E-axle includes two electric motors and a two-speed gearbox, directly driving the vehicle and ensuring a compact and efficient design.
One of the standout features of the eEconic is its regenerative braking system. As Jimmy Dalgleish, Product Manager for Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks at Daimler Truck and Bus Australia Pacific, explains, “As soon as you decelerate or take your foot off the accelerator or use the brake, it turns into a generator, generating power that comes back into the battery.” This system maximises energy efficiency, extending the truck’s operational range.
Innovative design and practicality
The eEconic’s design eschews the traditional drive line with an electric engine at the front. Instead, it integrates the motor within the axle, eliminating the need for a tail shaft and allowing more space for battery storage. This setup enables the truck to maintain a slim profile, compliant with Australia’s 2.5-metre width regulation, while accommodating substantial battery capacity.
Dalgleish notes the practical benefits of this design, particularly in the waste management context. The truck’s low entry point is a significant advantage for operators who frequently enter and exit the vehicle. “It’s easier for them to get in and out of the vehicle,” says Dalgleish, “which is why we predominantly sell the Econic in the rear loader market within Australia.”
Adapting to Australian conditions
While the eEconic showcased in Australia features a two-tyre, steerable rear axle, the production model will be adapted to local regulations, featuring a solid axle. This change allows the vehicle to comply with Australia’s axle weight limits, ensuring it can handle the heavy loads typical of waste collection.
The truck also boasts a range of advanced safety features. These include Active Brake Assist, Sideguard Assist, and proximity control, all designed to enhance the safety of both the vehicle’s operators and the public. Additionally, the eEconic is equipped with a comprehensive camera system providing 360-degree visibility, further enhancing operational safety.
Charging and range
Charging efficiency is a critical consideration for electric vehicles, and the eEconic does not disappoint. With a maximum charging capacity of 160 kilowatts, the truck can reach an 80% charge in just over an hour. For typical operations, a 120-kilowatt charger can accomplish the same in about an hour and a half, ensuring minimal downtime.
While the exact range of the eEconic under Australian conditions remains to be determined, Dalgleish is optimistic. “In Europe, they’re getting anywhere up to 150 kilometres, eight hours, or 800 bins,” he says. However, he notes that Australian operations often involve longer distances between collection points and disposal facilities, which could impact the vehicle’s effective range. The inclusion of dual air conditioning units, essential for Australian summers, also adds to the power demands.
Market potential and future outlook
Despite these challenges, the potential for the eEconic in Australia is significant. The truck’s design and features align well with the needs of urban waste management, offering a combination of efficiency, safety, and sustainability that is unmatched in the market. Mercedes-Benz has already received several commitments for the new vehicles, indicating strong interest and demand.
The eEconic’s adaptability and advanced technology make it a promising solution for Australia’s waste management industry. As cities and companies look to reduce their carbon footprints and embrace greener technologies, the eEconic stands out as a viable and attractive option.
The Mercedes-Benz eEconic electric truck represents a bold step forward in the evolution of waste management vehicles. With its innovative design, impressive power storage, and advanced safety features, it is poised to make a significant impact in Australia. As the country continues to move towards sustainable practices, the eEconic will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the future of urban waste collection, combining efficiency with environmental responsibility.
