Nikola takes order for 2500 Tre model electric trucks

US-based battery electric and hydrogen truck maker Nikola Corporation has received a “minimum order” of 2500 electrified refuse trucks from waste collection company Republic Services.

Nikola says full production of the order will now begin with deliveries expected in 2023 and on-road testing likely to begin in early 2022.

The trucks are set to carry an industry-leading 720kWh of energy storage, Nikola says.

The announcement saw Nikola stock rally more than 22% with a market cap of more than US$15 billion, however the company is yet to post any significant revenue.

According to Securities and Exchange Commission filings, the company’s entire second quarter revenue of US$36,000 was for solar panels installed on the roof of its executive chairman’s Utah home.

Nikola founder and executive chairman Trevor Milton says the refuse industry “is one of the most stable markets in the industry and provides long-term shareholder value”.

“The Nikola Tre powertrain is ideal for the refuse market as it shares and uses the same batteries, controls, inverters and e-axle.

“By sharing the Tre platform, we can drive the cost down for both programs by using the same parts. You couldn’t pick a better partner than Republic Services, a leader in long-term environmental sustainability and customer service.

“Republic Services will help us ensure the Nikola Tre meets customer and fleet lifecycle demands and we are excited to have them participate in the design process,” Milton says.

Republic Services is the second largest recycling and solid waste provider in the US and is recognised as an industry leader in providing environmentally responsible, sustainable solutions to its customers.

Nikola chief executive Mark Russell says the deal is a “game changer”.

“Refuse truck customers have always ordered chassis from truck OEMs and bodies from other suppliers.

“Nikola has fully integrated the chassis and body, covering both with a single factory warranty. Trucks will include both automated side loaders and front-end loaders — all of which will be zero-emission,” Russell says.

The powertrain software will be limited to 1000 HP and is expected to outperform current diesel and natural gas competitors, the company says.

It says the new platform will give refuse trucks nearly three-times the HP of natural gas and diesel options.