AUTOCAR®, manufacturer of specialized severe-duty vocational trucks, built its first two alpha units that feature a zero emissions, all-electric powertrain. Additionally, the two E-ACX electric cabover refuse trucks are going through a strict validation testing process. This process ensures Autocar built the trucks to handle the same challenges and requirements as its diesel and CNG counterparts.
Further, the E-ACX-64™ alpha units are both automated side loaders that leverage Autocar’s Power of One® integration. They feature a body integration process that provides parallel engineering with Autocar body partners Heil and New Way. The alpha1 unit features the HEIL COMMAND SST and the alpha2 unit features the NEW WAY SIDEWINDER 3.0.
IN THE FIELD
Autocar partnered with customers to facilitate validation tests under real work conditions. The tests will help verify performance metrics as well as gain operator input for the units. Refuse Trucks are subject to all types of climates coast to coast. They also cycle through thousands of stops and starts a day, in and out of landfills and transfer stations. These conditions put even the best engineered trucks out of service. As a result, these real world tests and validations are key to making sure the E-ACX is ALWAYS UP®.
Timothy Thornton, vice president and general manager, refuse at Autocar, says the company continues its green innovation for refuse and other vocations with the E-ACX platform. He says it excites the company to begin testing the all-electric ACX that highlights the engineers’ and technicians’ hard work.
“The E-ACTT™ team that developed our all-electric terminal tractor gets a lot of credit for leading the BEV development and bringing this technology to severe-duty standards,” Thornton says. “The E-ACX is another step in our goal to help fleets achieve zero emissions while not compromising on performance or durability.”
The E-ACX will be available for pre-orders in 2023, with a limited production run in 2024.
Find out more, visit www.autocartruck.com.
