Zero-emission truck startup Nikola has secured an order for at least 2,500 electric refuse trucks (expandable up to 5,000) from Republic Services, the second-largest solid waste hauler in the US. Nikola says on-road testing is “likely to begin in early 2022,” and deliveries will begin in 2023.

The new trucks will use Nikola’s Tre powertrain. Battery capacity will be up to 720 kWh, and total power will be a software-limited 1,000 hp, which Nikola says is “nearly three times the horsepower of natural gas and diesel options.”

“Nikola specializes in heavy-duty, zero-emission Class 8 trucks. The refuse market is one of the most stable markets in the industry and provides long-term shareholder value,” said Nikola founder and Executive Chairman Trevor Milton. “The Nikola Tre powertrain is ideal for the refuse market as it shares and uses the same batteries, controls, inverters and e-axle. By sharing the Tre platform, we can drive the cost down for both programs by using the same parts.”

Milton added that Republic will be “participating in the design process.”

“Refuse truck customers have always ordered chassis from truck OEMs and bodies from other suppliers,” said Nikola CEO Mark Russell. “Nikola has fully integrated the chassis and body, covering both with a single factory warranty. Trucks will include both automated side loaders and front-end loaders—all of which will be zero-emission.”

Source: Nikola Motor Company