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McNeilus Debuts Electric Front-Loading Refuse Truck

The Volterra ZFL electric refuse and recycling collection vehicle is built on the McNeilus Volterra platform, which also includes a side loader option.

A white McNeilus Volterra ZFL electric front loader is shown against a blue background.

The McNeilus Volterra ZFL eRCV is optimized to navigate through confined spaces such as urban areas. 

Photo: McNeilus

2 min to read


McNeilus Truck and Manufacturing is offering what it says it the nation's first fully integrated, electric front loading commercial collection vehicle.

McNeilus, an Oshkosh Corporation business, debuted its new Volterra ZFL electric refuse and recycling collection vehicle (eRCV) at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2025.

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A Closer Look at the Volterra ZFL

McNeilus' latest collection vehicle is built on the McNeilus Volterra platform, which includes the Volterra ZSL side loader option, a vehicle in use in communities across the United States.

The Volterra ZFL eRCV is a fully electric front loader engineered to meet the rigorous demands of commercial waste and recycling operations. 

Designed collaboratively with Oshkosh Corporation and McNeilus engineers, its integrated electric powertrain eliminates exhaust emissions, controls noise pollution, and delivers reliable performance on a single charge.

Key features include:

  • Driver-First Design: A spacious, ergonomic cab with a consistent 15” step height, strong visibility for drivers and robust operator controls to support an efficient, comfortable working environment.

  • Zero-Emission Technology: Powered by an advanced electric drivetrain with regenerative braking, the McNeilus Volterra ZFL electric vehicle offers quiet operation and sustainable performance which can support environmental goals.

  • Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS): Equipped with blind-spot monitoring, 360-degree cameras and lane departure warning, the McNeilus Volterra ZFL eRCV can help enhance safety in high-traffic and urban environments.

  • Proven Durability: Integrated with the McNeilus Meridian body, the Volterra ZFL electric vehicle combines the strength and reliability customers expect with innovative electric technology.

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With a tight turning radius and streamlined design, the McNeilus Volterra ZFL eRCV is optimized to navigate through confined spaces such as urban areas. 

Its overnight charging capability and regenerative braking system helps optimize battery life and efficiency, offering an ideal solution for route-based refuse and recycling collection.

With a fully electric drivetrain, the Volterra ZFL eRCV has a quiet operation, which allows the vehicle to operate during early morning hours.

Leveraging the McNeilus Meridian body, the the vehicle utilizes common parts and maintenance providing efficiency in serviceability.

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) features such as blind-spot monitoring, 360-degree cameras, and autonomous emergency braking promote safe operations. 

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“The McNeilus Volterra ZFL takes commercial refuse and recycling collection to the next level, offering zero-emission operation and a purpose-built design that prioritizes driver comfort and efficiency,” McNeilus Vice President and General Manager Lee Dreas said. “We’re proud to introduce this innovation at CES 2025 and demonstrate how McNeilus and Oshkosh Corporation are leading the way in creating clean, smart and safe solutions for essential industries.”

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