NEW TECHNOLOGY
Electric Bucket Trucks
The Mack MD Electric is supported by Mack dealers, many of which are Mack-certified electric vehicle dealers.
monitors that analyze the truck’ s jib and basket capacity and provide visible and audible alarms when an overload has been detected. Also to support safe work practices, a positive attachment lanyard( PAL) warning device from Terex Utilities is designed to remind operators to connect their fall protection harness before elevating a bucket.
The new all-electric Mack bucket truck is also equipped with the 3rd Eye digital platform that integrates advanced camera systems and artificial intelligence technology to maximize safety and productivity. With up to six high definition( HD) cameras displayed on a seven-inch in-cab monitor, the system provides a complete, real-time view of the vehicle’ s surroundings, reducing blind spots when reversing, changing lanes or operating in tight or high traffic areas.
“ The 3rd Eye system is wirelessly connected to the cloud, continuously capturing and storing critical operational data and video, providing fleet managers real-time visibility into driver performance, chassis and body activity and equipment status,” said Eric Monsen, vice president of sales and marketing for Environmental Solutions
Group, the provider of the 3rd Eye system.“ These insights not only improve safety and reduce liability but also create a detailed event record that can help identify coachable opportunities to reinforce safe driving behaviors.”
Mack’ s EV Expansion
The Mack MD Electric chassis, first introduced in 2023, features a three-phase permanent magnet synchronous motor. Power for propulsion and on-board accessories comes from nickel manganese cobalt( NMC) oxide lithium-ion batteries. Offered in 150 kilowatt( kWh) or 240 kWh configurations, the MD Electric can be charged through AC or DC charging units while a regenerative braking system helps recapture energy. The Mack MD Electric is supported by Mack dealers, many of which are Mack-certified electric vehicle( EV) dealers.
The Class 7 electric Mack model with the Terex Optima HR55 aerial device has a gross vehicle weight rating( GVWR) of 33,000 pounds. The truck manufacturer also offers a Class 6 MD Electric model with a GVWR of 25,995 pounds. The Mack MD series is available in 4x2 configurations and has a
“ With this new offering, electric utilities can field an electric truck with the apparatus they need to service poles and lines.”
short bumper-to-back-of-cab measurement of 103 inches and a sharp wheel cut for enhanced maneuverability in tight urban settings.
According to Mack and Terex, their partnership is now providing another option for electric utility customers looking for zero-emissions vehicle and equipment solutions. Their new electric bucket truck will be available in limited quantities in 2025 with a standard delivery time of 12 to 18 months.
“ With this new offering, electric utilities can field an electric truck with the apparatus they need to service poles and lines,” Fotopoulos said.“ As we continue to work with body builders to progress the MD Electric across various Class 6 and 7 commercial truck applications, this collaboration with Terex Utilities demonstrates Mack’ s commitment to delivering sustainable solutions that meet our customers’ specific needs.”
16 l March-April 2025