SWCorp sets EV fleet transition target, cites well-being, sustainability, productivity as concerns
IN A transition towards greener and more sustainable services, Alam Flora Sdn Bhd has launched a fleet of electric vehicles (EV) and environmentally friendly equipment.
The unveiling included electric road sweepers, road maintenance vehicles and electric blowers to evaluate their operational feasibility.
Solid Waste and Public Cleansing Management Corporation (SWCorp) chairman Hee Loy Sian said the corporation wanted waste management concessionaires to gradually transition 20% to 30% of their existing vehicle fleets to EVs, including refuse compactors.
He said the equipment was expected to reduce carbon emissions, minimise noise pollution and improve energy efficiency.
“At the same time, modernising operations will enhance productivity while supporting frontline workers’ safety and comfort.
“We must view sustainability not only as an environmental responsibility, but also as a strategic investment in the country’s future.
“Every effort that optimises resource use and reduces our carbon footprint should continue to be strengthened,” he said at the launch of the EVs and equipment at Fasiliti Inovasi Kitar Semula in Precinct 5, Putrajaya.
Alam Flora chief executive officer Shariman Yusuf Mohamed Zain said the company would fully electrify its motorcycle fleet, with 182 electric motorcycles and 56 electric tricycles to be acquired.
However, he said larger operational vehicles like electric refuse compactors would undergo a proof of concept (PoC) before wider rollout.
“These are new technologies, so we need to test them thoroughly before expanding their deployment.
“We need to ensure the vehicles can operate reliably and seamlessly.
“If a vehicle breaks down in the middle of its route, it will affect our services delivery.
“The electric road sweepers and deep-cleansing vehicles have already demonstrated that they can operate for an entire working day on a single charge.”
Shariman also said the electric refuse compactors were expected to arrive in a month or two.
“The PoC will assess whether the vehicles can meet operational requirements, including daily collection schedules, battery endurance and payload capacity.
“The company will also evaluate whether the vehicles perform according to the manufacturer’s specifications without compromising service delivery to the public,” he said.
When asked about costs, Shariman said EVs had a higher upfront investment, estimated at 40% to 50% more than conventional diesel-powered vehicles.
“However, the lower fuel and maintenance costs should generate savings over the vehicles’ lifecycle,” he added.
Also present at the launch was National Solid Waste Management Department director-general Datuk Dr Mohd Azhar Abd Hamid.
In a statement, Alam Flora said it aimed to deploy up to 242 EVs and electric-powered equipment units across its service areas.
Following the findings of its PoC initiatives, the company will evaluate the most effective approach to scaling up EV adoption across its operations.
Alam Flora has also invested about RM3mil in acquiring, deploying and developing EVs, electric-powered equipment and supporting technologies.
It will continue to explore autonomous driving technologies, robotics and smart digital solutions to enhance efficiency, sustainability and operational excellence.
