Luton’s new bin lorries run on fuel made from waste vegetable oil

Luton’s new bin lorries will be running on renewable fuel made from waste vegetable oil as the council brings 10 new vehicles into service.

The new vehicles are replacing older vehicles in the council’s existing fleet and are being introduced as part of its capital replacement programme.

The vehicles use hydrotreated vegetable oil, a renewable diesel alternative, while an ECO pump system allows the bin lifter to operate while the engine is idling.

The council says both features will help reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions.

The new vehicles also feature 360-degree cameras, CCTV and radar systems which can detect people up to seven metres behind the vehicle when it is reversing.

They are also slightly narrower and shorter than the vehicles they replace, which the council says will make them easier to manoeuvre on Luton’s streets.

Councillor Steve Stephens, Portfolio Holder for Neighbourhood Services, said the investment would help protect an essential service from disruption caused by ageing vehicles.

“Waste collection is one of the services residents rely on every day, so it is important that we have reliable, modern vehicles in place to support our teams.

“This investment will help us continue to deliver these essential services, reduce the risk of disruption caused by vehicle breakdowns and provide a more efficient and sustainable waste collection service for many years to come.”

Some of the new vehicles are already in service on the council’s main collection rounds.

Luton Council is also planning to replace its remaining ageing refuse collection vehicles, with further new vehicles expected to enter service next year.