Veolia trials electric tricycles in London

Veolia is trialling two electric pedal tricycles in Westminster, specially designed for on-street waste collection.

The electric vehicles (EVs) are powered by batteries that assist the rider with the additional weight of the tipping body tank, where the waste is loaded.

The e-tricycle can carry a maximum of 150kg, in comparison to a barrow used by a street sweeper which has a capacity of 20kg, while being able to enter pedestrian areas or other places within limited space for movement, the company said. 

During the three-month trial, one e-tricycle will be in operation in the Victoria area in Westminster, and a second one in the West End. Veolia says the e-tricycles offer a safe, efficient, and clean air solution for street waste collections.

Julie Angulo, general manager at Veolia Westminster, said: “The electric tricycle trial is another testament to Veolia’s ongoing commitment to create greener cities by constantly providing sustainable and innovative waste solutions.

“We are extremely proud to collaborate with forward thinking local authority partners such as Westminster City Council and to keep trialling alternative fleet solutions. We will continue to support the council in fulfilling their commitment to become carbon neutral by 2030.”

Cllr Melvyn Caplan, deputy leader and cabinet member for city management at Westminster City Council, said: “Westminster City Council is committed to utilising new technology to keep our streets clean and reduce our carbon footprint.

“These new vehicles offer an innovative and efficient solution to waste collection, and I am pleased to be working in partnership with Veolia to deliver a cleaner and greener city for all.”