Mack LR Electric enters serial production

Mack Trucks’ first fully electric Class 8 model, the Mack LR Electric refuse vehicle, has officially entered serial production at the OEM’s facility in Macungie, Pa.

Look no further than the copper-colored bulldog hood ornament to spot the trucks with the fully electric drivetrain.

Mack bulldog for electric vehicles
Macks with electric drivetrains are easily identified by copper-colored bulldogs. (Photo: Mack Trucks)

“We are fulfilling customer orders as we speak,” said Gunnar Brunius, vice-president and general manager at the Lehigh Valley Operations facility.

“Mack has long been a leader in the refuse segment, and we couldn’t be more pleased to now be producing Mack LR Electric vehicles to help our customers meet their sustainability goals,” said Jonathan Randall, senior vice-president — sales and commercial operations.

The truck comes with four NMC (Nickel Manganese Cobalt Oxide) lithium-ion batteries, charged by a 150kW charging system. Together they power everything from the wheels to onboard accessories through 12-, 24- and 600-volt circuits. A three-mode regenerative braking system supports the recharging and range.

Plans to launch the LR Electric emerged in 2018, and a demonstration unit was delivered to the New York City Department of Sanitation in September 2020, followed a month later by a unit for Republic Services.

Mack LR Electric production
Serial production of the Mack LR Electric has begun at the OEM’s Lehigh Valley Operations facility. (Photo: Mack Trucks)
Focus On: Mack Electric LR


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  • Have you implemented a source or function for using an engine brake device or retarder that is vital for heavy loads in mountain passes, and would it work as well as a typical jake brake or engine retarder for negotiating downhill mountain ranges? Without this type of device built into the mobility of the truck, this would be a very dangerous vehicle to have on the road without the very necessary form of braking

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  • Yup, this is the way of the future imo.
    Pleased that Mack (Volvo) has embraced this technology.
    Purchased an EV auto last year from visionary manufacturer and wonder why I hadn’t done this sooner. 20k miles later and the only maintenance I can think of is the pending deterioration of the wiper blades.
    Am done with future purchases of ICE powered vehicles.

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