Mack Trucks recently unveiled its highly anticipated Mack LR battery electric vehicle (BEV) at WasteExpo 2019 in Las Vegas. A demonstration model will begin real-world testing in 2020 in the demanding operations of the New York City Department of Sanitation (DSNY). Jonathan Randall, Mack Trucks senior vice president, North American sales and marketing, explains, “Built on our decades of experience in powertrain innovation, the electric LR delivers a powerful yet quiet, zero-emission solution designed to tackle one of the most demanding applications in one of the largest cities in the world.”
The Mack LR BEV is powered by Mack’s integrated electric powertrain consisting of two 130-kW motors producing a combined 496 peak horsepower and 4,051 lb.-ft. of torque available from zero rotational speed. Power is transmitted to the wheels through a two-speed Mack Powershift transmission and Mack’s proprietary S522R 52,000-lb. rear axles.
All of the LR BEV’s accessories, including the hydraulic systems for the Heil DuraPack 5000 body, are electrically driven through 12-, 24- and 600-V circuits. Four NMC lithium-ion batteries (lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide) are charged via a 150kW, SAE J1772-compliant charging system.
Mack officials say refuse and recycling collection represents an ideal application for BEVs because vehicles operate on predetermined routes and return home every off shift, helping eliminate concerns about range and finding a location to charge. The frequent starts and stops, which can occur thousands of times per shift, also provide a significant regenerative braking opportunity to recapture energy.
Fully electric trucks, like the Mack LR BEV, produce zero emissions and significantly less noise. This enables nighttime operation, a particularly attractive option for refuse operators in urban environments.
Click here for more information on the Mack BEV LR.
