Top DVS rating for Lunaz

Commercial Motor
February 9, 2024

Refuse vehicle upcycler Lunaz has achieved a five star DVS rating for its upcycled electric vehicles. The company plans to scale up production to convert more than 1000 refuse vehicles to electric powertrains annually. 

 

Lunaz founder, David Lorenz, said: “From the outset, we’ve built our upcycled electric refuse trucks to meet the DVS five-star standard for driver visibility - the highest available. This accreditation enables operators to obtain an HGV permit from London boroughs without any further documentary evidence or vehicle modifications. It’s also in line with London Mayor Sadiq Khan’s pledge to eliminate road deaths in London by 2041. 

 

“Having our UEVs fully prepared for operation in the capital is an important step towards widespread adoption. They’re cheaper and better-equipped than their all-new electric equivalents, representing greater value for money for local taxpayers, alongside the environmental benefits of our clean-air technology and upcycling process. It also means we’re heading into 2024 in a strong position to continue our journey towards a projected production capacity of 1100 vehicles a year.”

 

The idea behind the Lunaz model is to make refuse vehicles better than new which includes equipping the trucks with various technologies to improve visibility and driveability. Three cameras are mounted on the top corners of the vehicle and wing mirrors are swapped out for digital versions. A downward facing camera also allows the driver to see in front of and below the vehicle. 

 

These camera systems are combined with software to identify hazards around the vehicle. An object detection system can spot cyclists, pedestrians and other road users and uses the dashboard display to alert the driver. 

 

Over a seven year period, Lunaz claims its upcycled electric vehicles offer total cost of ownership parity with diesel refuse trucks. Compared to a new electric vehicle, the company estimates a 25% saving. It’s anticipated demand for commercial vehicle electrification by upcycling diesel trucks will continue to grow over the coming years to offer operators a more affordable way to introduce electric vehicles to their fleets. 

To explore a vast range of the latest vehicles, equipment and fleet services, make sure to come along to the Road Transport Expo this summer from 4-6 June at NAEC Stoneleigh. Book your free ticket today!

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Commercial Motor

Commercialmotor.com is the online presence for Commercial Motor magazine, the world’s oldest magazine dedicated to the commercial vehicle industry.

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