Econ Engineering, a provider of winter maintenance vehicle solutions, has recently unveiled an impressive addition to their lineup – a highly adaptable electric gritter truck. This groundbreaking vehicle offers year-round operation, thanks to its range of demountable body options, allowing for seamless switching between different fleet roles while maintaining zero-tailpipe emissions.
At the heart of the truck’s versatility lies Econ’s revolutionary Electric Quick Change Body (E-QCB) system. In addition to the standard gritter body, this innovative system enables the truck to be equipped with a tipper body for efficient highway maintenance or a cage tipper for refuse collection and recycling purposes. Developed in-house by Econ, the E-QCB employs hydraulic rams to facilitate a swift transition between demountable bodies, with the entire process taking just 15 minutes and requiring the expertise of a single operator.
The flagship model in Econ’s new “Econ Zero” range is a fully functional prototype constructed on a 19-tonne Volvo FE Electric 4×2 chassis. The development of this remarkable vehicle was the result of close collaboration between Econ Engineering’s research and development team, Volvo Trucks UK & Ireland’s product specialists, and supplying dealer Crossroads Truck & Bus.
Jonathan Lupton, Managing Director at Econ Engineering, expresses enthusiasm for the market introduction of the E-QCB in partnership with Volvo, stating, “We’re thrilled to present the E-QCB, which has undergone extensive redesign and rigorous testing to ensure that our customers can enjoy a fully electric solution that remains operational throughout the year. This model excels in urban environments, where daily mileage is generally shorter than on long-distance motorway routes. Its ability to easily switch between different body types allows customers to maximize its utility year-round. As the UK’s infrastructure evolves to support renewable energy, we remain committed to advancing our Econ Zero range and other sustainable innovations.”
Econ Engineering officially showcased the new truck at the prestigious Cold Comfort 2023 event in Harrogate, a specialized conference and exhibition focused on winter highway maintenance services.
Christian Coolsaet, Managing Director of Volvo Trucks UK & Ireland, emphasizes the need for all sectors of the transportation industry to work towards achieving net zero emissions, including gritting and snowploughing services. Coolsaet commends Econ’s exceptional product, featuring the FE Electric chassis, as it enables gritter fleets to benefit from cleaner, quieter, and more efficient operations.
An added benefit for drivers is the enhanced working environment provided by the new FE Electric model. With reduced vibrations and nearly silent operation, drivers can better concentrate on the road ahead. The Volvo powertrain, consisting of two electric motors and a two-speed gearbox, delivers an exceptionally smooth driving experience. The power delivery is skillfully managed by a unique traction control system specifically designed to handle slippery surfaces.
Equipped with four batteries, the FE Electric chassis boasts a range of up to 250km and can be rapidly recharged in just 2.3 hours using a 150 kW DC charger. Furthermore, the battery can be charged up to 80% capacity at an accelerated pace, similar to how smartphones charge, with the charger slowing down towards the end of the process to safeguard the battery cells.
Econ Engineering, headquartered in Yorkshire, has been a pioneering force in the winter maintenance vehicle industry for over 50 years. The company designs and manufactures gritters and various other vehicles extensively utilized by local authorities and private contractors across the United Kingdom.
