Following on from a recent product test of the new 'CN101' 1-cubic metre capacity sub-compact precinct sweeper exclusively reviewed in the May/June issue of Waste Management World, Johnston Sweepers unveiled a new compact truck-mounted highway sweeper at the Futuresource event last week.
At present the '550' is based on a diesel-powered Mitsubishi-Fuso 'Canter' lightweight truck chassis of 7.5 tonnes gross weight and was shown in this form on the Johnston stand, but WMW understands that the same basic design is also suitable for mounting on the new 7.5tonne gross battery electric version of the Canter, which will be available shortly, or diesel electric hybrid alternatives. the same design of body equipment will also be available on the competitive Isuzu chassis.
"While our intention is to continue to power the fan and sweep systems by a conventional diesel VM power unit at present, it does open up the exciting prospect of using other alternative fuel sources in future," explained sales and marketing manager Graham Howlett.
Although Johnston produces one of the widest ranges of vacuum sweepers currently available, it has long been thought that a compact truck-based design that is both comfortable and easy to drive offers advantages over a larger purpose-built skid design in the five cubic metre capacity class, in certain markets. One of these is of course an ability to be driven further at speed between sweeping assignments in transit mode. The other is by using a 'host' chassis like the Canter, Johnston can tap into advances in hybrid and stop/start technology developed by the major truck chassis producers at a much reduced cost.
"We're very excited at the possibilities offered by using the Canter chassis, Graham Howlett explained, "In electric form, it could enable city authorities to sweep in downtown areas later in the evening, or earlier in the mornings when traffic conditions are lighter, without causing complaints from residents."
More info from: Enquiries@johnstonsweepers.com
