WM New Zealand grows one of NZ’s largest electric truck fleets with Mercedes-Benz eEconic

WM New Zealand has added its first Mercedes-Benz eEconic electric rear loader to its growing electric truck fleet, marking another step forward in safer operations and a lower-carbon future for waste and resource recovery in Aotearoa.

The purchase of the truck was supported by a $150,000 grant from the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA), recognising the role heavy vehicle electrification plays in reducing transport emissions and improving urban air quality.

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 specialist 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.”

Head of Fleet Jitesh Singh says the addition of 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.”

Chief Executive Officer of Keith Andrews, Darren Evans says they are proud to partner with WM New Zealand as they continue to grow one of the country’s largest electric truck fleets.

“The introduction of the Mercedes-Benz eEconic reflects a shared commitment to safety, innovation and sustainability in New Zealand’s transport sector. Through close collaboration from technical specification, delivery, and ongoing aftersales support, we have worked to ensure the eEconic integrates seamlessly into their fleet and meets their operational needs.”

Daimler Truck Australia Pacific Vice President Sales, Marketing and Operations, Andrew Assimo says WM’s commitment to safe, high-performing operations aligns strongly with their vision for the future of urban transport.

“The Mercedes‑Benz eEconic delivers performance with zero exhaust emissions without compromising capability or safety, and we’re proud to support WM as they continue to lead New Zealand’s transition to cleaner, more sustainable fleets.”

The new truck 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:

• Side loaders: 13
• Rear loaders: 9
• Food LEVs: 20
• Glass LEVs: 4
• Box trucks: 7
• Skips: 5
• Prime mover: 1
• Split body: 1

These vehicles are operating nationwide, with 31 based in WM North, 24 in WM South, and 4 supporting Technical Services operations.

Earlier this year, WM’s electric heavy fleet passed a significant milestone, more than 3 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.

Jitesh says the milestone reflects years of steady effort by teams across the business.

“Three million electric kilometres represents real impact, almost 5,600 tonnes of emissions avoided. It shows what is possible when you invest early and learn by doing. The next phase will move even faster.”

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.