Related: New York City's ‘Bronx is Breathing’ Project Supports Electric Trucks
Mack LRs Power Chicago's First Electric Refuse Fleet
Republic Services introduced Chicago’s first electric refuse trucks, marking a step toward cleaner, quieter waste collection across the city.

Republic Services, Mack Trucks, and ComEd leaders highlight the launch of Chicago’s first electric refuse fleet during an event on Aug. 14. Pictured from left: Marilynn Gardner, Navy Pier president and CEO; Matt Healy, Republic Services Group area president; Dr. Anthony Marinelli, Respiratory Health Association; Melissa Washington, ComEd SVP; and Brett Rogers, Republic Services Group vice president of operation technology.
Photo: Mack Trucks
Republic Services Group introduced Chicago’s first electric refuse trucks with the deployment of two Mack LR Electric vehicles. The announcement was marked at a ceremony on August 14 with company executives and partners, including representatives from Mack Trucks and ComEd.
Attendees included:
Marilynn Gardner, president and CEO of Navy Pier
Matt Healy, area president, Republic Services Group
Anthony Marinelli, Respiratory Health Association
Melissa Washington, SVP, ComEd
Brett Rogers, VP of operation technology, Republic Services Group
Vehicle Overview
The Mack LR Electric is designed for refuse operations with a battery-electric powertrain that produces zero local emissions. It features quieter operation compared to diesel-powered counterparts, an advantage for early morning collection routes.
The model maintains the durability of Mack’s diesel lineup while supporting fleet sustainability initiatives and improving air quality in urban areas, according to a news release from Mack.
Its low cab-forward design and tight turning radius are suited for residential and commercial waste collection routes.
More Fuel Smarts

How GP Transco Builds Fuel Savings a Fraction at a Time
Aerodynamic specs, solar panels, and driver incentives help GP Transco turn small efficiency gains into savings it can reinvest in its people.
Read More →
Trucking’s Diesel Squeeze Isn’t Letting Up
With diesel topping $6 a gallon nationally, ATA's Bob Costello explains why fleets should prepare for continued pressure at the pump.
Read More →
FlowBelow Redesigns Trailer AeroSlider to Cut Fuel Use
The lighter trailer aerodynamic system installs in less than 45 minutes, according to the company, with potential payback in under a year depending on fuel prices and trailer mileage.
Read More →
Why Diesel Price Relief Efforts May Fall Short
Diesel prices have eased from September’s record high, but doubts about additional Russian supply and limits on dyed-diesel tax relief mean trucking fleets still face expensive fuel. And prices could go higher.
Read More →Why Small Fuel Savings Matter in Trucking
Can better fuel economy help pay for driver raises? In this podcast, GP Transco explains how small efficiency gains create room to reinvest in its people.
Read More →How GP Transco Cuts Trucking Fuel Costs, a Tenth of a Gallon at a Time
What’s another tenth of a mile per gallon worth? GP Transco shares how equipment upgrades and driver coaching turn small gains into meaningful fuel savings.
Read More →
Electric Yard Tractors Move Beyond Pilots
Operating-cost savings have overtaken sustainability goals as the leading reason surveyed fleets are adopting battery-electric terminal tractors, according to new NACFE research.
Read More →
Geotab Links Fleet Card to Vehicle Data
The new card combines fuel discounts with telematics-based purchase controls. Geotab’s analysis also points to potential savings from choosing lower-priced fuel stops.
Read More →
Fleet Economics Shape Electric Truck Outlook
ACT Research expects costs, charging infrastructure, and technology improvements to drive zero-emission commercial vehicle adoption as federal regulations and incentives retreat.
Read More →
Wex Adds Cardless Fuel Payments for Over-the-Road Customers
A new fuel card feature for Wex customers offers convenience and security.
Read More →
