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in cleaning operations and optimise road use. By connecting the autonomous vehicles through the Bucher Connect digital service platform, operations centres get real time data about operating status and safety through to predictive support and maintenance. This enables operators to plan routes, optimise performance and utilise vehicles for safer,
cleaner and more sustainable city centres.
The CityCat 2020ev deploys technology from Enway( Now a Bucher Company), a software developer specialised in high-precision autonomous utility vehicles that Bucher Municipal acquired in 2021.
Innovation at Bucher Municipal isn’ t just about automation – it’ s fundamentally about creating more sustainable urban solutions.“ We have a two-pronged approach to sustainability,” Steve shares.“ One is‘ more for less’, and by that I mean how can we utilise what we have with less power
Rubber Lining & Coating Specialists Metal & Pipe Work Fabrications Site Mechanical Installation
Supplying High Quality Services to the Bucher Dorking Site for 30 + Years
Mechline-UK Limited, formed from the merger of IQL and Watercare Utilities Ltd
01494 865 601 | contact @ mechlineuk. co. uk www. mechlineuk. co. uk consumption, such as incorporating airflow, cooling or autonomous AI technology for example. The other approach focuses on developing alternative fuels or power sources. By continuously exploring innovations in electricity and other alternatives used to power our products, we are investing in a more sustainable environment.”
With the shift towards electrification comes a wave of positive change in the current range of cleaning and clearing equipment on offer; covering everything from sweepers and refuse trucks to winter maintenance equipment and sewer cleaning units.
When it comes to sweepers especially, 2018 was a memorable year for Bucher Municipal with the launch of the industry’ s first electrified truck-mounted sweeper. The zero-emissions vehicle produces less noise pollution than conventional sweepers and can be operated for a full workday without needing to be recharged. There are limitations to electrification, especially when it comes to larger vehicles, but with alternative fuels, that doesn’ t mean large vehicles can’ t be green.
The company’ s forward-thinking approach extends beyond current electric capabilities.“ Hydrogen is emerging as a key fuel source for next-generation solutions,” Steve adds.“ By producing only water as a by-product, hydrogen-powered vehicles deliver zero tailpipe emissions while offering the range and performance needed for demanding municipal operations. We’ re exploring hydrogen as a solution but are mindful that infrastructure and refuelling readiness may not be keeping pace.”
With urbanisation rising and over half the world’ s population already living in cities, the pressure on municipalities and companies to manage waste efficiently is growing. Intelligent cleaning and clearing technology, powered by data, automation and AI, are transforming how fleets operate.
By connecting multiple vehicles into one digital system, organisations can centralise
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