Central to the truck's adaptability is Econ's Electric Quick Change Body (E-QCB) system, which enables swift transitions between different bodywork configurations. In addition to the standard gritter body, the E-QCB can be equipped with a tipper body for highway maintenance or a cage tipper for refuse collection and recycling. Developed in-house by Econ, the E-QCB employs hydraulic rams to facilitate the effortless changeover of bodies, all under the control of a single operator. The entire process takes just 15 minutes.
The inaugural addition to this new lineup, known as the 'Econ Zero' range, is a fully operational prototype built on a 19-tonne Volvo FE Electric 4×2 chassis. The truck's development was the result of a close collaboration between Econ Engineering's R&D team, product specialists from Volvo Trucks UK & Ireland, and supplying dealer Crossroads Truck & Bus.
Jonathan Lupton, Managing Director at Econ Engineering, expressed his excitement about partnering with Volvo, stating, "We have dedicated considerable time to developing the new E-QCB, incorporating comprehensive redesigns and extensive trials to provide our customers with a fully electric solution that can be utilized year-round."
Lupton emphasized that the vehicle excels in urban environments, where daily mileage is typically lower compared to longer motorway routes. Thanks to the ease of switching between body types offered by this model, customers can fully benefit from operating the truck throughout the year. Lupton also pledged the company's commitment to advancing the Econ Zero range and other renewable energy innovations to align with the evolving infrastructure supporting these initiatives in the UK.
Christian Coolsaet, Managing Director of Volvo Trucks UK & Ireland, emphasized the importance of achieving net zero emissions across all sectors of the transport industry, including gritting and snowploughing. Coolsaet praised Econ for developing an exceptional product centered around Volvo's FE Electric chassis, which will enable gritter fleets to benefit from cleaner, quieter, and more efficient trucks.
One crucial advantage for drivers is the improved working environment offered by the new FE Electric. With reduced vibrations and nearly silent operation, drivers can now better concentrate on the road ahead. The Volvo powertrain features two electric motors coupled with a two-speed gearbox, delivering an incredibly smooth driving experience. The power delivery is managed by a unique traction control system designed to master slippery surfaces.
Equipped with four batteries, the FE Electric chassis offers an impressive range of up to 250 km and can be fully recharged in just 2.3 hours using a 150 kW DC charger. Additionally, the battery can be charged rapidly to 80% capacity, similar to the charging process of a smartphone, as the charger slows down near completion to safeguard the battery cells.
Based in Yorkshire, Econ Engineering boasts a prominent position in the winter maintenance vehicle industry, with over 50 years of experience in designing and manufacturing gritters and other specialized vehicles. Its products are widely utilized by local authorities and private contractors across the UK.
The official unveiling of the electric gritter truck took place at Cold Comfort 2023, a specialized conference and exhibition focused on winter highway maintenance services, held in Harrogate.
Source: Volvo Trucks