We're not actually talking about a new high performance supercar here but.... an electric sub-compact precinct sweeper!
There have been several attempts at designing and building an all- electric sweeper. Such designs are already in service on indoor applications, but producing a suitable machine for municipal cleaning of pavements and walk ways is a much harder proposition.
A key difference is that indoor machines are only used for a few hours each day, whereas to justify purchase, any precinct sweeper has to be used for a full shift each day -and everyday.
And where simple mechanical pick-up systems perhaps aided by a low pressure fan are fine for in-store, airport or warehouse applications, when it comes to sweeping precincts, pavements and walkways, a full vacuum machine is the only solution. The key problem area therefore is to find a battery pack with enough power - and staying power - to both power the machine forward, while also powering the brush gear and vacuum fan.
Step forward the new 'Green Machine 500ZE' - a brand new 'zero-emissions' design from the UK-based Applied Sweepers division of US manufacturer Tennant.
The advantages of an all-electric powered vacuum sweeper are considerable;- zero-emissions and a much quieter operation are a bonus in inner city areas that have to be swept at night or early in the morning before the shops open.
Based on the diesel powered 600 Series, the 1200mm wide '500ZE' is designed to work a complete eight hour shift, but packs can be changed to give a double shift capability. Hopper capacity is 0.75cubic metres. Air con cab and anti-dust water sprays are also electric powered. Drive motor is 15kW with brush system via AC motor driven hydraulic pump.
*More info at www.greenmachines.com
