In a bid for sustainability, Serco is trialling electric recycling vehicles in Hampshire, converting two diesel models to electric versions.
- The project is part of Serco’s collaboration with VEV and RVS aiming to reduce the carbon footprint of waste collections in Basingstoke & Deane, and Hart & Rushmoor.
- RVS refurbished the diesel trucks while VEV provided charging infrastructure for the electric models.
- This initiative seeks to establish the feasibility of fully electrifying waste collection fleets to cut emissions and noise.
- VEV and Serco express confidence in proving the operational benefits and supporting net-zero carbon emission targets.
Serco has embarked on a forward-thinking initiative by conducting a pilot programme for electric waste recycling vehicles in Hampshire. With an eye towards sustainability, this move involves converting two traditional diesel waste collection trucks into cleaner, electric versions.
The transformation is the result of a collaboration between Serco, vehicle electrification expert VEV, and refuse vehicle supplier RVS. Each entity brings its expertise to the table, with RVS responsible for refurbishing and repowering the diesel trucks, while VEV supplies the essential charging infrastructure to keep these electric vehicles operational on the roads.
The geographic focus for this pilot is the councils of Basingstoke & Deane, and Hart & Rushmoor, where the emissions and noise pollution reductions associated with electric vehicles will be closely monitored. This strategic effort is not simply about immediate benefits but aims to establish a robust business case for transitioning all refuse collection fleets to electric.
According to Mike Nakrani, CEO of VEV, electrifying refuse and recycling collections offers local councils a significant opportunity to decrease carbon footprints and noise pollution levels. He emphasises the confidence in their collaboration with RVS and Serco to meet the climate emergency targets set by the local councils.
George Roach, who serves as the regional director for Serco Environmental Services, expresses a similar sentiment of pride in this initiative. The project supports the net carbon zero targets not only of the participating local authorities but also aligns with Serco’s overarching environmental objectives.
Both executives are optimistic about the operational and environmental improvements, underlining the project’s potential to deliver a quieter, cleaner environment for local residents.
This pilot project by Serco exemplifies a significant step towards environmentally friendly waste management solutions through electrification.
