Distributed Energy Resources, GHG Emissions, Industrial  -  November 15, 2024

City of Cambridge Advances Zero-Emission Fleet with Electric Trash Truck

The City of Cambridge, Massachusetts announced the addition of its first Mack LR Electric trash collection truck to the city’s fleet, marking another critical step in helping the city meet its larger climate action and emissions reduction goals. 

The Mack LR Electric truck is the first fully electric trash truck in operation in Cambridge. Three additional EV collection trucks have been fully funded, with the next two due to arrive early 2025. 

These vehicles are part of a significant milestone in the city's commitment to a 100% zero-emission solid waste collection fleet by June 30, 2035.

“Waste collection is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions in Cambridge, so transitioning these heavy-duty diesel vehicles to electric was a logical step toward our goal of eliminating fossil fuels,” said Kathy Watkins, Public Works Commissioner, in a statement. “We’re excited to see these trucks on Cambridge streets, making trash collection a cleaner, greener process.”

The Mack LR Electric trucks feature a 376-kWh battery capacity, allowing for a long range between charges. Fully electric and emission-free, they contribute to cleaner air by eliminating tailpipe pollution and reducing harmful particulate emissions. To support these electric trucks, the city has installed two DC fast chargers, ensuring that the vehicles are ready for service each day. 

The city’s commitment to expanding its fleet of EVs and reducing its carbon footprint is also supported by state and federal incentives. The Massachusetts Offers Rebates for Electric Vehicles (MOR-EV) program provided a $99,000 rebate for each of the first two trucks, and the Environmental Protection Agency’s Diesel Emissions Reduction Act (DERA) program will contribute a $305,000 grant toward the cost of the third vehicle.