‘So, out into the Dales?’ I asked Andy, hopefully.
Cold Comfort May 2023. I am offered a ride in Econ Engineering’s latest innovation - the Zero Emissions E-QCB, where the E stands for electric and QCB for Quick Change Body. The Yorkshire-based company had chosen Cold Comfort to launch what is said to be the first electric multi-purpose highway maintenance HGV truck in the UK.
I didn't quite make it to the Dales, as the offer was, in fact, for a trip around the middle of Harrogate. Though it is very elegant town, especially in the lovely spring weather, and the E-QCB was expertly driven and described by Andy McCarthy (pictured), Econ’s demonstration and training specialist.
This being Cold Comfort, the vehicle was set up as a gritter. A short ride around Harrogate in the vehicle, taking in some surprisingly sudden and steep inclines, gave a good idea of how smooth, powerful and how really quiet it is.
The E-QCB has been developed by Econ on the newly launched 19-tonne Volvo FE Electric 4×2 chassis and can be supplied with three demount bodies, to get all year utilisation of the chassis.
The QCB system uses hydraulic rams and locking systems that enable the bodies to be switched in 15 minutes, controlled by a single trained operator.
It can utilise a winter six cubic metre spreader body, an insulated end tipper body specifically designed for highway maintenance works (below), or a caged tipper body for street scene activities, such as street refuse collection, fly tip removal and recycling operations.
Volvo’s FE Electric has a recharging time of 2.3 hours with a high powered 150kW DC charger, giving a range of up to 150 miles, and features two electric motors as well as a two-speed gearbox. So in fact, a trip into the countryside would have been no problem.
Last week highway maintenance contractor Ringway announced that, with its long-term strategic fleet partner, Econ, it had successfully trialled the E-QCB in the East Midlands.
Ringway said the trial is part of its continued progress to reduce carbon emissions within its fleet portfolio and to prove where depots, with sufficient substations, can charge such an electric HGV in fleet downtime to avoid operational constraints.
It will also be dynamically testing the vehicle, including the Quick Change Body system, with a view to using it in other aspects of its highway services.
Managing director Mitesh Solanki said: ‘For Ringway, this trial further demonstrates how we are constantly seeking to innovate and evolve to meet our carbon reduction goals and those of our clients without compromising the service.’
Following the success of Cold Comfort, which saw one E-QCB sold and another on contract, Econ also celebrated National Clean Air Day and its ongoing commitment to carbon reduction. Long may it continue to help protect our beautiful natural environment, like the Dales...a wonderful place, I hear.
