The copper-colored Bulldog on the hood of a Mack® LR Electric (LRe) vehicle represents Mack Trucks’ commitment to eMobility. With zero emissions, zero diesel costs and zero oil changes, the battery-electric truck of the future is already hard at work. Since its April 2021 launch, the customer feedback has been enthusiastic as operators report back on the powerful, quiet performance that’s electrifying the industry.
“Operators say it’s kind of eerie at first. They climb up into a cab that looks the same — the same chassis, same interior with the same Mack creature comforts. And then, when they turn it on, there’s no ramping up of the engine as it silently comes to life,” says Tyler Ohlmansiek, director of eMobility sales for Mack Trucks. “Once they test drive it, they rave about the smooth, quiet ride and how alert and aware they are without all the noisy distraction,” he says. “There’s a cool factor, too. You are part of a greater environmental effort all while driving an iconic truck like the Mack LR Electric,” Ohlmansiek says.
Several municipalities are already successfully operating Mack LRe refuse vehicles. Drivers consistently report less fatigue and say they enjoy the quiet, smooth ride. With skyrocketing diesel prices and diesel shortages, customers and operators appreciate an electric option.
Refuse company customers are getting used to the quieter vehicles, which are especially welcome in crowded, urban areas. “We keep hearing about homeowners running down the street pulling their trash cans trying to wave down the refuse truck. They can’t take out the trash based on listening for the truck anymore. And that’s a good thing,” Ohlmansiek says with a laugh.
Scott Ferris, Mack sales for Housby Heavy Equipment in Des Moines, Iowa, test drove the LRe refuse truck at WasteExpo 2022 in Las Vegas this May. “It was so cool to turn on the truck, and quietly, with no delay, the truck starts. There are so many impressive features, but I really liked the regenerative braking and the quiet, smooth ride,” he says.