Bolton Council expands fleet with new Mercedes-Benz Econics

Bolton Council have added 19 new Mercedes-Benz Econics to its fleet of refuse trucks.

The new, Euro VI-compliant trucks, supplied by local Dealer Ciceley Commercials offer a 90% reduction in particulate and nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions compared to their Euro V predecessors, while also consuming less fuel and up to 40% less AdBlue.

The vehicles also have rear-steer axles to provide enhanced manoeuvrability and Active Brake Assist 5 emergency braking technology with pedestrian recognition capability, and Electronic Parking Brakes that are applied automatically when the engine is switched off.

Eight of the new trucks are fitted with 22m3 versions of FAUN Zoeller’s Variopress body and work with split Delta high-level bin lifts. The remaining 11 vehicles have been specified with cylindrical Rotopress bodies, which represent a new departure for the authority.

The new trucks are 2630 L variants with 7.7-litre in-line six-cylinder engines that transmit their 220 kW (299 hp) outputs to the road via six-speed Allison automatic gearboxes purpose-designed for stop-start applications.

Jason Molyneux, senior team leader in the Council’s Waste Department, said: “Our Econics have given us very few problems. The drivelines are exceptionally reliable, and the cabs are comfortable and well-liked by the drivers and crews who use them.

“FAUN Zoeller is also a trusted supplier, and experience has shown that its products offer the performance we need. By specifying the two different types of body, we’ve ensured that we have the flexibility to manage every kind of waste stream efficiently and cost-effectively.”

Bolton Council’s 20 m3 capacity Rotopress units are also fitted with Delta lifts and offer 11.5-tonne maximum payload capacities, up by about a tonne on their Variopress stablemates.

Bolton Council operates a fleet of 42 refuse collection vehicles, which the authority maintains in its own workshop.

Councillor Adele Warren, executive cabinet member for regeneration & dvelopment, said: “This is a great step forward in our commitment to be a cleaner, greener, environmentally sustainable borough.

“These new vehicles will reduce carbon emissions and support our efforts to reduce pollution and deliver improved air quality in Bolton.”