Mack Trucks Delivers LR Electric To N.C. For In-Service Tests

Mack Trucks has delivered a pre-production Mack LR Electric model to Republic Services to begin in-service trials in the refuse segment. Mack said it will use key learnings from the trials to further refine the LR Electric as it prepares to accept orders for the truck in Q4 2020, with production beginning in 2021.

“Mack Trucks is extremely pleased that Republic’s very first fully electric refuse vehicle is the Mack LR Electric,” said Jonathan Randall, Mack Trucks senior vice president of North American sales and commercial operations. “The LR Electric offers numerous benefits, including zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and quieter operation, and we look forward to partnering with Republic to meet their business needs through this fully electric truck.”

Republic Services will test the LR Electric model in Hickory, N.C., on one of its residential recycling collection routes. The LR Electric will be evaluated for its range, functionality and payload capacity.

Featuring a fully electric integrated powertrain, the Republic Mack LR Electric is equipped with two electric motors with a combined output of 536 peak horsepower. The powertrain delivers 4051 lb.-ft. of torque available from zero rpm, which is fed through a two-speed Mack Powershift transmission to Mack’s proprietary S462R 46,000 lb. rear axles. Four NMC lithium-ion (lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide) batteries are charged via a 150 kW, SAE J1772-compliant charging system.

The Republic LR Electric uses a Heil Command-SST automated side loader refuse body. It has a strong, lightweight body that maximizes hauling capacity, without sacrificing performance, said Mack. Its hydraulic system draws power when needed, helping extend battery life. A unique feature is the body-mounted ASL arm, which frees up frame rail space for batteries or other auxiliary components.

Identified by a copper bulldog to signify its fully electric powertrain, the LR Electric will be built at the Mack Trucks Lehigh Valley Operations (LVO) facility in Macungie, Pa., where all Class 8 Mack Trucks for North America and export are assembled.