BYD, WRT and AMREP Launch Electric Refuse Truck for Carson, Calif.

BYD (Build Your Dreams) recently delivered a BYD 8R Class 8 Automated Side Loader (ASL) all-electric collection truck to Waste Resources Inc., a subsidiary of Waste Resource Technologies Inc. (WRT), to serve customers in Carson, Calif.

This vehicle is the first all-electric refuse truck in residential collection operation in Southern California. The heavy-duty truck features BYD’s propriety electric propulsion system designed specifically for refuse collection. The cab, chassis and propulsion system were built by BYD, and the ASL body was built by Amrep, a Wastequip company.

“Electric collection trucks are part of our strategy to use clean, green and sustainable technologies for waste collection, processing and conversion. We applaud the city of Carson, Calif., for allowing us the opportunity to roll out these technologically advanced collection vehicles,” said Tommy Gendal, chief operating officer of WRT and Waste Resources, in a statement.

“WRT is a forward-thinking company that is embracing zero-emission technology for the benefit of the communities it serves,” said John Gerra, BYD director of business development, electric trucks, in a statement. “And we’re very happy with the great work that Amrep does to help provide our customers with state-of-the-art, zero-emission electric trucks.”

As the waste industry becomes increasingly sustainable, zero-emission electric trucks are the future of the industry, according to BYD.

“Amrep has earned a reputation for its unsurpassed and personal service, listening to customers and standing by its products,” said Eric Mattson, Amrep vice president and general manager, in a statement. “Partnering with WRT and BYD on this electric truck is further evidence of our being in tune with the market and giving customers what they want and need.”

In addition to the first BYD 8R recently delivered, WRT has ordered three additional units, including another 8R Class 8 and two 6R Class 6 electric refuse trucks.