WM Introduces Fully Electric Collection Truck in Laguna Beach

WM, a leading provider of comprehensive environmental solutions, announced the launch of a fully electric collection truck to service recycling and trash routes in Laguna Beach. This location was selected because the coastal city exemplifies WM’s commitment to environmental stewardship and innovation.

The new electric truck, a BYD Class 8 automated side loader, embarked on its inaugural journey from WM’s Irvine yard into the heart of Laguna Beach, on June 23, 2023. WM tested the state-of-the-art electric vehicle for a year prior to adding it to its fleet. The deployment aligns with WM’s ongoing efforts to explore and integrate advanced technologies that contribute to a more sustainable future.

"At WM, we are driven by a relentless pursuit of innovation and are dedicated to leading the industry in creating a more sustainable environmental services ecosystem," said Mike Hammer, Area Vice President of WM of Southern California. "The integration of electric vehicles into our fleet is another step in our sustainability journey and reinforces our commitment to the communities we serve."

Electric refuse trucks present a variety of benefits such as producing zero tailpipe emissions, making a significant contribution to reducing air pollution and enhancing local air quality, particularly in densely populated areas. Electric collection trucks operate quietly, minimizing noise pollution, and they offer the potential of reduced maintenance issues due to fewer moving parts.

WM has a strong track record of incorporating alternative fuels into its operations, with a notable focus on natural gas vehicles (NGVs). Since 2010, the company has successfully reduced greenhouse gas emissions attributed to its fleet by approximately 38 percent. This achievement is equivalent to removing over 150,000 passenger vehicles from the road annually. Building upon this foundation, WM has expanded its commitment to alternative fuels by venturing into electric vehicle technologies to understand where they can best serve its customers and communities.

With the introduction of the fully electric collection truck, WM aims to assess the vehicle's longevity and operational efficiency in Laguna Beach. Its implementation serves as a vital step toward incorporating additional electric vehicles into WM’s southern California fleet, further solidifying the company’s dedication to sustainability and environmental responsibility.

The electric truck's deployment coincides with California's decision to cease sales of traditional combustion trucks by 2036 and to have all zero-emission medium and heavy-duty trucks in the state by 2045. The truck is one of WM’s many active and planned efforts to identify the best equipment to use in alignment with the upcoming regulation and actively contribute to California's clean energy goals.