The University of Tennessee has integrated a McNeilus Volterra ZFL electric garbage truck into its waste collection operations at the Knoxville campus. This vehicle, manufactured within the state, is designed to replace diesel-powered units to reduce emissions and noise levels during early-morning routes near campus facilities.
The truck is a Class 8 vehicle equipped with a 499 kWh battery pack, though an optional 665 kWh version is available. It utilizes a high-torque e-axle and is engineered for all-day operation. According to the manufacturer, the base configuration supports a range of up to 110 miles over a 10-hour shift.
University officials intend to monitor the performance of the electric truck under real-world conditions. Data gathered from these daily operations will inform future decisions regarding the expansion and electrification of the university's broader waste management fleet.
