EV trucks that sanitize: Clean sweep

• Author:
• Author name

  Quantumrun Foresight
• August 16, 2024

Insight summary

Electric vehicles (EVs) for public services, like sanitation, are reshaping urban management. These vehicles enhance cleaning efficiency while supporting sustainable practices in the aftermath of health crises. As adoption grows, these technologies could lead to shifts in job roles, requiring new skills and adjustments in municipal budgets and policies to support their integration and maintenance.

EV trucks that sanitize context

Electric vehicles designed for specific utility tasks are becoming increasingly significant in urban management and environmental strategies. For example, The Robosweeper, developed collaboratively by China-based WeRide and Yutong Group, is a fully electric and driverless truck geared towards cleaning and sanitizing public roads. Its operational capabilities include sweeping, sprinkling, and disinfecting surfaces, which proves particularly relevant in the aftermath of health crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. In May 2022, this vehicle began its testing phase in Guangzhou, China, showcasing a high Level 4 automation that is yet to be mainstream in production vehicles.

Another notable development in this sector is the collaboration between Volvo Trucks and Bucher Municipal. They are focused on creating electric trucks specifically for sewer cleaning, based on the Volvo FL Electric, a model introduced in 2018. By the end of 2023, Bucher Municipal delivered 80 all-electric sewer cleaning trucks across various European cities. This partnership highlights the increasing adoption of EVs in heavy-duty operations, from urban sanitation to inter-city transportation.

In the US, the move towards electric sanitation vehicles is illustrated by the deployment of Oregon's first battery-powered garbage truck by COR Disposal and Recycling. Launched in Portland with the collaboration of Portland General Electric, this vehicle operates with a 400-kilowatt-hour battery, demonstrating a shift towards zero-emissions in waste management. Adopting such technologies reflects a growing recognition of the need for sustainable urban practices and the potential economic advantages of electric over diesel-powered alternatives. 

Disruptive impact

As these EV sanitation trucks become more common, there is potential for job shifts from traditional waste management roles to more specialized technical positions focused on EV maintenance and operation. This shift may require workers to acquire new skills, leading to increased opportunities in electrical engineering and software development. However, job displacement could occur for those unable or unwilling to transition, highlighting a need for comprehensive retraining programs.

Waste management and urban sanitation companies may need to consider the initial high costs associated with purchasing and deploying these EVs, although they may save on fuel and maintenance in the long term. Additionally, adopting electric trucks can enhance a company's brand image as environmentally responsible, potentially attracting more customers and improving its market position. However, businesses may need to navigate the complexities of integrating these new technologies with their existing logistics and operations frameworks.

Governments will face challenges and opportunities as they incorporate electric sanitation trucks into their municipal fleets. Policies and incentives may need to be crafted to encourage the adoption of these vehicles, balancing upfront costs against long-term environmental benefits. Local governments may also need to invest in infrastructure, such as charging stations, to support a growing fleet of EV trucks. Globally, as countries push towards reducing carbon emissions, those that lead in adopting and supporting electric sanitation technologies could set new standards and strengthen their positions in global environmental discussions.

Implications of EV trucks that sanitize

Wider implications of EV trucks that sanitize may include: 

• A shift in municipal budget allocations, with more funds directed towards the infrastructure for electric vehicle charging stations and less towards fossil fuel-related expenses.


• Enhanced air quality in urban areas, as the replacement of diesel trucks with electric ones reduces the emission of particulates and nitrogen oxides.


• New policies by local governments to regulate noise pollution, as electric trucks operate more quietly than traditional sanitation vehicles.


• Changes in the insurance landscape, with companies potentially offering lower premiums for businesses that use electric vehicles due to their lower accident and breakdown rates.


• A rise in consumer expectations for corporate responsibility, pushing companies to accelerate their adoption of environmentally friendly practices.


• The need for significant upgrades in power grid infrastructure to accommodate the increased electrical load from widespread use of electric trucks.


• Expansion of job training programs in community colleges and technical schools to prepare workers for careers in electric vehicle maintenance and operation.


• New waste management strategies that leverage the increased efficiency and capabilities of electric sanitation trucks.


• A potential increase in electronic waste, as the components of electric vehicles, such as batteries and electronic control units, eventually reach the end of their life cycles.

Questions to consider

• How could electric sanitation trucks improve the health and environment of your neighborhood?


• How can local governments support businesses in transitioning to electric sanitation fleets?