The city of Madison, Wisconsin, has incorporated two Class 8 electric garbage trucks into its fleet as part of its goal to achieve carbon neutrality for city operations by 2030. The new vehicles, Mack Electric LR heavy-duty electric trucks, represent an effort to reduce emissions in the area, with plans in place to add two additional electric trucks in the future.
Madison established its zero-net carbon target in 2017, joining other North American cities in setting emissions goals. As part of this transition, the city has begun electrifying its heavy-duty truck fleet, including garbage collection vehicles, in a step toward reducing diesel exhaust on local streets.
“Electrification aligns with environmental and community goals,” said Madison Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway, explaining that refuse trucks cover all areas of the city, and reducing diesel emissions may benefit residents.
The new Mack trucks are powered by dual electric motors generating 536 horsepower and 4,051 lb-ft of torque and are equipped with a 376 kWh battery pack. Charging takes place at the city’s truck depot, with ChargePoint DC fast chargers providing a full charge in under two hours.
“Five years ago, Madison had no electric vehicles in its fleet,” added Rhodes-Conway. “Now, the city has over 100 electric vehicles, 150 hybrids, and is adding 62 electric buses to the transit system. This move allows us to assess electric garbage trucks in real-world use and examine potential cost savings from reduced fuel and maintenance requirements.”
Madison’s electrification initiative places it among cities actively pursuing low-emission solutions in municipal operations.
