URL: https://democracy.adur-worthing.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=1330

Decision Maker: Service Director for Operations & Environmental Services (CLT)

Outcome:

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: Yes

Purpose:

Content: To proceed with the collaborative project with Magtec, utilizing Advanced Propulsion Centre (APC) grant funding to repower a Council-owned Refuse Collection Vehicle (RCV) with an electric driveline. This decision approves the release of a donor vehicle for conversion, with the unit scheduled to re-enter service by October.    While the capital cost of the electric driveline is fully grant-funded, the Council are required to commit to a £13,000 per annum Repair and Maintenance (R&M) contract to support the electric system once in service.  This will be entered into for the next five years assuming the vehicle remains in active service during this time.   This decision supports the Council’s commitment to achieving Net Zero by accelerating the decarbonization of its heavy goods fleet. Utilizing the Advanced Propulsion Centre (APC) grant allows the Council to trial electric RCV technology with minimal capital exposure, avoiding the significant cost of purchasing a new electric vehicle (typically exceeding £400,000). Furthermore, by repowering an existing chassis and refurbishing the body, the Council adopts a circular economy approach that extends the useful life of a Council asset, reduces embodied carbon, and secures essential operational data to inform future fleet procurement strategies. The option to purchase a brand-new electric RCV was considered but rejected due to the prohibitive capital cost (typically over £400,000) compared to this grant-funded repower opportunity. Additionally, the 'do nothing' approach of continuing to operate the current diesel driveline was discounted, as it fails to contribute towards the Council’s Net Zero targets or capture the external investment offered by the APC.

Date of Decision: February 9, 2026