Dubai:Dubai Municipality has launched its first fully electric vehicle dedicated to collecting and transporting general waste, marking a significant advancement in city cleaning operations. The introduction of the vehicle underscores the Municipality's commitment to enhancing urban environmental protection, advancing sustainability, and improving the quality of life in Dubai.
According to Emirates News Agency, this initiative aligns with Dubai Municipality's strategic objectives to advance integrated waste management, enhance public cleaning services' operational efficiency, and modernize its vehicle fleet. It also contributes to preserving Dubai's urban and aesthetic appearance while supporting climate neutrality targets and the adoption of clean energy and innovative technologies.
The electric vehicle operates entirely on electrical energy stored in three high-efficiency lithium-ion batteries, weighing approximately 2.2 tonnes. It can travel between 100 and 150 kilometers on a single charge, meeting daily operational requirements across different areas of Dubai. Equipped with fast-charging technology, the vehicle's battery charge can increase from 20% to 80% in just one hour and 45 minutes using a 160 kW charger.
With a total waste storage capacity of 19 cubic meters and the ability to carry up to 11 tonnes of compressed waste, the vehicle is compatible with various waste container sizes. It features advanced systems, including an electric compactor and source-based weighing systems, to support multiple waste collection and transport systems. Smart cameras enhance occupational safety by enabling continuous monitoring of operational stages and the surrounding environment.
Saeed Safar, Director of the Waste Operations Department at Dubai Municipality, highlighted that the electric vehicle's introduction represents a significant step in modernizing the Municipality's fleet. The vehicle's operation aims to test the performance of heavy electric vehicles under local climatic conditions and assess their suitability for Dubai's requirements.
Dubai Municipality has also trained a specialized operational team, including a smart vehicle technician and cleaning engineers, to support the vehicle's efficient operation and maintenance. The electric compactor is scheduled to operate across two shifts, totaling 16 hours per day.