Dubai Municipality Introduces Its First Electric Waste Truck
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Dubai Municipality has introduced its first fully electric waste collection truck, featuring an 11-tonne payload, a driving range of up to 150 km and 160 kW fast-charging capability. The initiative aims to improve waste collection efficiency, reduce emissions and assess the performance of heavy electric vehicles under Dubai's operating conditions
the performance of heavy electric vehicles under Dubai's operating conditions. Announced on 8 November 2026, the vehicle forms part of Dubai Municipality's efforts to modernise its fleet, enhance public cleaning services and adopt sustainable technologies. It also supports the emirate's wider ambitions to improve its urban environment and residents' quality of life. The initiative aligns with the Dubai Integrated Waste Management Strategy 2041, which aims to reduce waste generation by 18% and divert 100% of waste away from landfills by 2041. It also contributes to broader climate neutrality and clean energy objectives.
Electric waste truck specifications and charging
The electric waste truck is powered by three lithium-ion batteries with a combined weight of approximately 2.2 tonnes. Together, they provide a claimed driving range of 100–150 km on a single charge.
The vehicle supports fast charging at up to 160 kW, allowing its batteries to recharge from 20% to 80% in one hour and 45 minutes.
It has a waste storage capacity of 19 cubic metres and can carry up to 11 tonnes of compressed waste. The truck is also compatible with waste containers measuring 1.1 cubic metres, 360 litres, 240 litres and 120 litres.
An electric compactor supports both community container collection and door-to-door waste collection services. The vehicle also features source-based weighing systems that measure waste as containers are emptied.
Smart safety and monitoring technology
The truck is equipped with smart cameras that continuously monitor operational activities, vehicle movements and the surrounding environment. These systems improve driver visibility during manoeuvres and help reduce potential risks to workers and other road users.
To support the vehicle's operation, Dubai Municipality has trained a specialised team comprising a smart vehicle technician and cleaning engineers. The team will oversee its operation and maintenance.
The electric compactor is scheduled to operate across two shifts, covering a total of 16 hours each day.
Testing electric heavy vehicles in Dubai
Saeed Safar, Director of the Waste Operations Department at Dubai Municipality, said introducing the vehicle marks an important step in the modernisation of the municipality's fleet.
Operating the truck will allow the authority to assess the real-world performance of heavy electric vehicles under Dubai's climatic conditions and determine their suitability for municipal services. The findings will provide a scientific basis for evaluating the potential expansion of electric vehicles across the fleet.
Safar added that adopting electric waste collection vehicles supports the transition towards a circular economy by reducing reliance on conventional vehicles, improving energy efficiency and lowering emissions.
The initiative forms part of Dubai Municipality's broader efforts to strengthen smart city management, advance environmental sustainability and introduce innovative municipal services that enhance residents' wellbeing and quality of life.
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