Garbage trucks have evolved by leaps and bounds since the early 20th century. Here are some of the key innovations that make modern designs so much better than those of the past:
- Improved engines that use less fuel and emit far fewer pollutants.
- Cart tippers and hydraulic arms that improve efficiency.
- Safety features like cameras and emergency stop buttons.
An easy way for your company to enjoy these advances is with our garbage truck rentals, which save you from the skyrocketing costs of an outright purchase. Take advantage of our flexible short- and long-term rental agreements to get the top-quality truck you need, only when you need it.
Below, let’s take a closer look at how garbage trucks have changed over the years.
From Horse-Drawn Wagons to Electric Engines
One of the earliest gas-powered waste hauling vehicles was the Mack Manhattan. First released in 1908, it freed cities across the country from using slow, smelly horse-drawn trash carts. But its engine was loud, unreliable, and highly polluting.
Most of today’s garbage trucks are powered by diesel engines, which do emit some greenhouse gasses. This is quickly changing thanks to natural gas, which is not only more efficient but cleaner-burning as well.
What’s next? Most industry observers say that electric engines will replace fossil fuels entirely over the next 20 years, thanks to breakthrough advances in battery technology. This means that tomorrow’s trash trucks will not only be quieter, they’ll be kinder to the environment as well.
Making the Waste Hauling Industry Safer Than Before
Early trash trucks were notoriously dangerous. Sanitation workers breathed noxious engine fumes all day long, while pedestrians and motorists were in constant danger due to the many blind spots on the typical chassis.
All of this began to change in the 1970s and 80s, as engines became cleaner and safety features like backup mirrors came into common use.
This trend is accelerating thanks to emergency stop buttons and high-definition surveillance cameras, which give operators a 360-degree view of their surroundings.
Say Goodbye to Your Aching Back
Perhaps the greatest improvement in the waste hauling industry is the use of hydraulic arms, which free today’s sanitation workers from hoisting heavy trash cans all day long.
But there are more advances on the way. Industry analysts predict that artificial intelligence (AI) programs will soon replace operator-controlled joysticks. This will make the job of operating a garbage truck almost effortless.
Ready to Take the Next Step? Contact Us Today!
The only downside to the innovations we’ve discussed is the effect they have on sticker prices. Luckily, there’s an easy solution to this problem. Simply contact us today about our rental options for waste disposal trucks. We have short-term, long-term, and rent-to-purchase plans to meet your needs. Let us help put your company on the road to higher profits.
