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McNeilus Unveils Electric Front-Loading Refuse Truck

McNeilus Truck and Manufacturing’s Volterra ZFL electric refuse and recycling truck features front loading, technology-driven safety features, and overnight charging.

White refuse truck against blue background with company name, McNeilus, inset.

The Volterra ZFL provides a front-loading option for refuse and recycling fleets wanting a battery-electric truck.

Photo: McNeilus Truck and Manufacturing

3 min to read


McNeilus Truck and Manufacturing, an Oshkosh Corporation business, is showcasing its new Volterra ZFL electric refuse and recycling collection vehicle this week at CES 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The new front loader is equipped with blind-spot monitoring, 360-degree cameras, and lane departure warning alerts.

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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,” said Lee Dreas, vice president and general manager of McNeilus Truck and Manufacturing. “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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Electrifying the Future of Refuse Collection

Built on the proven McNeilus Volterra platform which includes the Volterra ZSL side loader option already 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 all-day performance on a single charge.

Main Features of the Volterra ZFL eRCV 

Key features of the McNeilus Volterra ZFL eRCV include:

  • Driver-first design: A spacious, ergonomic cab for drivers with a consistent 15-inch step height, outstanding visibility, 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.

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

  • Quiet operation: The fully electric drivetrain helps control noise levels while in operation. Emitting less noise than traditional refuse and recycling collection vehicles allows the McNeilus Volterra ZFL eRCV to operate during the night or early morning.

  • Common parts and body: Leveraging the McNeilus Meridian body, the Volterra ZFL electric refuse and recycling collection vehicle utilizes common parts and maintenance, providing serviceability efficiency.

Purpose-Built for Efficiency and Sustainability

McNeilus said the Volterra ZFL leverages Oshkosh’s decades of expertise in developing purpose-built vehicles for challenging environments. With a tight turning radius and streamlined design, the McNeilus Volterra ZFL eRCV is optimized to navigate through confined spaces such as urban areas and commercial lots. 

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

“The McNeilus Volterra ZFL embodies the spirit of innovation that defines Oshkosh Corporation,” Dreas added. “We’re excited to highlight this breakthrough vehicle and its potential to positively transform commercial waste collection for our customers and communities.”

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