Republic Services Releases Electric Waste Truck Recycling Fleet

Within the next five years, it is anticipated that at least 50% of new truck purchases by Republic Services will be electric vehicles. This shift to EV's reflects a larger trend that is sweeping across many industries.

Republic Services Inc. and Oshkosh Corp. Form a Partnership

Oshkosh Corp., a truck manufacturer based in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, has recently formed a long-term agreement with Phoenix’s, Republic Services Inc.

The deal will involve significant scaling of Republic Services’ electric truck fleet. Two fully integrated prototypes of electric vehicles (EVs) dedicated to recycling and waste services will be launched this Fall. Within five years, it is expected that half of all new trucks purchased by the company will be EVs.

Boasting a convoy of 17,000 trucks, Republic Services is making history with its industry-leading commitment to electrifying its waste collection vehicles. Operating in two states already, the company has enlisted multiple suppliers and vendors to make its expansion possible.

Oshkosh’s McNeilus business unit, has supplied Republic Services with recycling and waste collection truck bodies for years.

Premium Features

Built with a unified chassis and body, the vehicle provides both an aerodynamic exterior and abundant interior space. To ensure safety, it features an enlarged windshield for better visibility, 360-degree cameras, sensors to detect lane departures, as well as automated braking systems.

“Republic Services is uniquely positioned to advance decarbonization through our commitment to electrification, delivering meaningful environmental and economic benefits,” Jon Vander Ark, Republic’s President, and CEO states. “Our engagement with Oshkosh on the truck of the future will accelerate the transition of our fleet while providing advanced safety features and technology. We’ll continue to invest in innovations that will help reduce emissions, benefit the environment and help our customers meet their own sustainability goals.”

Plans for Expansion

This fall, Phoenix will see the launch of a pair of automated side-load prototypes for residential collections. Additionally, in 2024, these vehicles are expected to be deployed in Santa Ana and Carlsbad, California as well as the Portland, Oregon area.

“The Oshkosh purpose-built, fully integrated refuse collection vehicle is a first-of-its-kind product in North America that was designed from the ground up with both customers and users in mind.”

Electric Vehicles Applicable Across Multiple Sectors

Electric vehicles, such as those made by Oshkosh Corp., have been used in a variety of applications including fire trucks, aircraft rescue and firefighting vehicles, defense vehicles, access equipment and concrete placement.

Utilizing Oshkosh Corp.’s experience with heavy-duty EVs and Republic’s environmental services leadership, electric vehicles are an ideal solution for recycling and waste collection. This new truck offers a reliable route with the ability to recharge overnight at its base station.

“Our electrified refuse collector delivers progressive technologies to the refuse industry and will advance sustainability initiatives in communities around the world. It features a sophisticated drivetrain that includes advanced lithium-ion batteries and a revolutionary electric-axle system. The vehicle will enable a full day’s refuse collection on a single charge with zero emissions.”

Seeking to make a significant impact on climate change, the company has set a purposeful goal of decreasing its Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions by 35 percent by 2030. Republic Services says it is now recognized as being the only U.S. environmental services providers with an approved emissions reduction plan from Science Based Targets Initiative.