Mercedes battery-electric waste collection vehicle is in operation at Stadtreinigung Hamburg (SRH)

The all-electric eEconic is presently in use by Hamburg’s municipal cleaning service. During a press conference, Environmental State Councilor Michael Pollmann, SRH Managing Director Professor Rüdiger Siechau, and Franziska Cusumano, Head of Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks & Custom Tailored Trucks, handed over the keys to “Kolonne 11” of the municipal cleaning department. For SRH, converting the fleet to alternative propulsion is one of the most crucial components of achieving carbon neutrality by 2035.

“Our eEconic for municipal operations has been in series production since last year at our Mercedes-Benz plant in Wörth. The locally CO2-neutral vehicle is characterized in particular by its pleasant, quiet driving experience. We are delighted that SRH is also relying on the battery-electric eEconic.” said Franziska Cusumano, Head of Mercedes-Benz Special Trucks & Custom Tailored Trucks.

Environmental State Councilor Michael Pollmann noted, “The coalition agreement of the government parties firmly anchors the climate neutrality of the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg in 2040. With this vehicle test, Stadtreinigung Hamburg once again proves that it not only fulfills its responsibility as a public company, but also actively participates in sustainable solutions. In addition to saving CO2, alternative drives in commercial vehicles also significantly reduce noise pollution in a densely populated metropolis such as Hamburg.”

“Climate neutrality in 2035 is one of SRH’s most important projects. While the conversion of our fleet to alternative drives for cars and small vans is already well advanced, extensive testing under real operating conditions is required, especially for large commercial vehicles. Together with our partners, we have been working for many years to gain insights and achieve market maturity. By 2025 at the latest, all newly procured vehicles at SRH will have alternative drive systems. We are confident that a successful test of the eEconic will be a major step towards this important goal.” said SRH Managing Director Prof. Dr Rüdiger Siechau.

The electric drivetrain allows for a flat cab floor, making it simpler to manoeuvre around. The panoramic windscreen and low seat position are further highlights of the kit. Moreover, the coated and heated Thermocontrol windscreen minimises weather-related misting of the screen, boosting visibility of the traffic area. The screen also keeps the cab inside from overheating in the sun. Significant safety benefit in urban traffic: The Sideguard Assist S1R and the 5th generation Active Brake Assist emergency braking aid are standard on the eEconic.