Bangkok plans 1,347 EV rubbish trucks to cut costs

Bangkok officials are considering leasing 1,347 electric rubbish trucks in a bid to cut costs and reduce pollution. Governor Chadchart Sittipunt estimates the switch from diesel trucks could save the city around 4.745 billion baht over five years, with savings of about 949 million baht per year. The 1,347 electric vehicles would travel an average of 200 kilometres per day, with electricity costs estimated at 4.011 billion baht over the same period.

Deputy Governor Chadchart noted that electric trucks would also generate lower levels of PM2.5, carbon monoxide and greenhouse gases, while their quieter operation would be better suited to night-time rubbish collection. Bangkok is working with the Metropolitan Electricity Authority to install charging infrastructure, and the vehicles will undergo performance testing before service.

Chadchart emphasized that rubbish collection remains a daily essential service, and the city will retain its waste collection staff while gradually reducing the workforce through retirement. The project's success hinges on approval of Bangkok's 2027 budget.