A new trial is taking place in Wales, comparing the performance of hydrogen and battery electric refuse trucks.
It has been designed to provide real-world operational data, allowing the performance of the vehicles to be compared to provide a basis for future decisions on zero-emission fleet technology.
Factors to be examined by engineers and fleet managers include the trucks’ energy usage, range, operational performance and suitability for different terrains and routes.
The trial is being run by the Cardiff Capital Region (CCR), a city region comprising ten local authorities in South East Wales, in partnership with its member councils Caerphilly County Borough Council and Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council, as well as Ricardo and Hyppo. More than £420,000 of funding is being provided by the Welsh Government.
Mike Brough, strategic director for regional growth for CCR, said: “This trial is exactly the kind of innovation CCR exists to champion. Heavy-duty fleets are one of the hardest sectors to decarbonise and by bringing hydrogen and electric technologies together in a real-world environment, we’re helping local authorities make informed, future proof decisions.
“It’s exciting, genuinely groundbreaking work and a fantastic example of regional collaboration driving practical climate action.”
