UK’s Biggest Eco-Refuse CNG Fleet Hits the Streets of Liverpool

Powered by biomethane, a compressed natural gas (CNG), the 20 strong fleet will help to radically cut Liverpool City Council’s carbon footprint. Producing 80% fewer carbon emissions and 90% less Nitrogen Oxide than the previous diesel vehicles, each new wagon will cover more than 150,000 miles a year.

The vehicles each have a Mercedes-Benz Econic chassis with Faun Zoeller Variopress body, a load capacity of up to 10.5 tonnes and a rear steering axle to easily manoeuvre narrow streets. The new CNG vehicles are part of a drive to improve the collection and recycling of household waste across the city to help reach a target of recycling more than 55% of waste.

A CNG station has been installed at LSSL’s refuse collection depot and the new vehicles, reportedly, cost 35% less in fuel, compared to diesel vehicles. According to recent government statistics, the city has already achieved an 18% reduction in carbon emissions since 2012 and is on course to hit 35% by the end of 2020.

Mayor of Liverpool Joe Anderson said: “This investment in a new fleet of refuse vehicles is a great statement of intent in our goal to make Liverpool a cleaner and greener city. The council inherited a tired and run down fleet which was inefficient, unreliable and costly. Having a brand-new refuse fleet that is bigger, more efficient and safer gives our collection teams the right tools to ensure residents receive a more reliable service.’’

Faun Zoeller Commercial Director, Stewart Gregory, said: “Liverpool City Council, and Liverpool Street Scene Services are a valued client to FAUN Zoeller. We have enjoyed an excellent relationship with the team at Liverpool over a number of years, and to have been able to assist in the integration of CNG into the fleet has been a valuable experience.”

Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet Member for the Environment and Sustainability, Cllr Laura Robertson-Collins, said: “It is vital that we improve the air quality across our city. As a council we will do all we can to move away from the use of diesel and other fuels that compromise health, within our own vehicle fleet.”

Source: LiverpoolExpress