The battery electric low entry model is operating as a rear loader refuse collection truck, marking another step forward in safer operations and lower carbon emissions.

WM New Zealand has one of NZ’s largest electric truck fleets and the purchase of the truck is supported by a $150,000 grant from the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA).

The eEconic will be used initially for inorganic collections, with potential to support tyre collections in the future. It has been designed specifically for urban, stop-start operations and brings clear safety and wellbeing benefits for frontline teams.

Its low-floor cab makes it easier and safer for drivers and runners to get in and out of the vehicle throughout the day. Unlike many collection trucks, it also includes seating for up to three crew members plus the driver, supporting team-based operations.

WM New Zealand Managing Director Evan Maehl says the investment reflects the company’s long-term commitment to practical, scalable decarbonisation.

“Fleet is one of our biggest opportunities to cut emissions and improve the experience for our people and the communities we serve. Every electric truck we put into service helps reduce noise, improve air quality, and move us closer to a low-carbon future,” Maehl says.

Head of Fleet Jitesh Singh says the eEconic also supports WM’s focus on safety and operational performance.

“This truck has been designed around the realities of collection work. The low-floor design reduces strain on drivers and runners who are in and out of the cab all day, and the extra seating supports how our crews actually operate. We already operate diesel Econic side loaders in municipal collections, and we are keen to see the development of electric eEconic side loaders in the future.”

The eEconic joins one of the most established electric heavy vehicle fleets in the country. WM began its EV programme in 2016 and has continued to build capability through a mix of original equipment vehicles and in-house conversions carried out by its own engineering teams.

Today, WM operates 60 electric vehicles across the business, including 50 built through internal conversions. The fleet spans a wide range of applications with 13 side loaders, nine rear loaders: 20 food LEVs, four glass LEVs, seven box trucks, 5 skips, a prime mover, and a split body.

Earlier this year, WM’s electric heavy fleet passed a significant milestone – more than three million kilometres driven. The pace of progress has accelerated over time. It took six years to reach the first million kilometres, two more years to reach two million, and just over a year to pass three million. This work has already avoided close to 5,600 tonnes of CO₂e emissions compared with diesel equivalents.

The addition of the Mercedes-Benz eEconic builds on WM New Zealand’s long-term sustainability programme and reinforces the company’s focus on practical action, innovation, and care for people and place.