New council fleet strengthens waste services

Funded through the council’s capital replacement programme, the new vehicles will improve the reliability of waste collections, reduce maintenance requirements and support efforts to reduce carbon emissions.

The new RCVs feature enhanced safety technology, including 360-degree cameras, CCTV and radar systems that can detect people up to seven metres behind the vehicle when reversing. They are also slightly narrower and shorter than the vehicles they replace, improving manoeuvrability on Luton’s streets.

The vehicles run on hydrotreated vegetable oil, a renewable diesel alternative, and are fitted with an ECO pump system that allows the bin lifter to operate at engine idle. Both features help reduce fuel consumption and emissions.

Councillor Steve Stephens, Portfolio Holder for Neighbourhood Services at Luton Council, said: “Waste collection is one of the services residents rely on every day, so it is important that we have reliable, modern vehicles in place to support our teams.

“This investment will help us continue to deliver these essential services, reduce the risk of disruption caused by vehicle breakdowns and provide a more efficient and sustainable waste collection service for many years to come.”

The new RCVs will be deployed on the council’s main collection rounds, with some already in service.

The council is also planning to replace its remaining ageing RCVs, with the new vehicles expected to enter service next year.