Zero-exhaust-emission truck trialled for commercial waste collection

REMONDIS Australia has trialled battery-electric zero-exhaust-emission technology from Mercedes-Benz Trucks.

The company put the Mercedes-Benz eEconic 6x2 model truck through commercial waste collection trials in Brisbane during August 2026.

The eEconic utilises lithium-ion batteries that power electric motors in the drive axle. The ‘e-axle’ design eliminates the need for a traditional driveshaft, resulting in zero exhaust emissions and near-silent operation. It also has energy recovery braking that increases efficiency and journey longevity, making it suitable for stop-and-go urban driving.

“REMONDIS, our parent company RETHMANN, and Mercedes-Benz are all iconic German brands, and our long relationships are behind this opportunity coming together,” said REMONDIS Australia CEO and Managing Director Björn Becker.

“We’ve used Mercedes-Benz trucks globally, including in Australia, for many years.

“It’s a natural progression that REMONDIS would be first to trial eEconic technology on Australian roads.

“Modern waste management is all about circular economy outcomes, and fleet operation is a big part of that.

“Given that we operate 600 waste collection trucks across Australia, there’s significant scope and appetite for us to cut emissions more broadly, be it through electric, hydrogen or hybrid technology.

“We’re working with multiple truck suppliers and other stakeholders to progress that journey.”

With drive output of up to 400 kilowatts, speed of up to 100 km/h and a range of up to 150 kilometres (with compaction), the eEconic uses three battery packs with 300 kWh of usable capacity. The batteries can be recharged in as little as 2.5 hours (using a 120 kW charger), typically at fleet owner depots.

The truck also has numerous safety features, including advanced emergency braking system (AEBS), panoramic windows and advanced mirrors and cameras to aid driver visibility, meaning new levels of precaution for pedestrians and other drivers.

A low two-step entry point supports better driver safety, with drivers avoiding repetitive climbs to and from seats that are positioned high in many conventional trucks.

REMONDIS Australia Technical Executive General Manager Conor Flynn said the eEconic trial truck was tailor-made for Australian conditions.

“Plenty of effort and cooperation has gone into delivering a bespoke model fit for Australian climates and terrain.

“Amongst other things, Brisbane was chosen for the trial because of its diverse operational landscape.

“The next steps are sharing and analysing information with Mercedes-Benz and other participants, including Superior Pak, which has overseen the body design.”

Mercedes-Benz Trucks Australia Pacific’s Sales and Marketing Vice President, Andrew Assimo, said he’s been thrilled to see the eEconic hard at work for REMONDIS and the Brisbane community.

“The Mercedes-Benz eEconic is the perfect choice for collecting waste and recycling day-in and day-out, delivering practical sustainability.

“We know it can allow REMONDIS to deliver its customer-first waste solutions in near silence while producing zero exhaust emissions.

“The track record of these trucks speaks for itself in Europe, and we’ll be working closely with REMONDIS with a view to them succeeding in Australia.”

Image caption: Mercedes-Benz eEconic 6x2 model truck for REMONDIS Australia trial. Image: Supplied