The new electric vehicle forms part of Bradford Council’s clean air plan, which aims to reduce emergency respiratory admissions at Bradford Royal Infirmary by 10% in the next two years.

It is also part of the council’s commitment to combating climate change, where it aims to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2038, with significant progress by 2030.

During the trial, the council found that the eCollect was easier to drive and more efficient than its current vehicles and was also much quieter and narrower, making it more manoeuvrable.

It used the RCV to travel 100 miles on a single charge and worked out that it cost the council around £20 to fully charge it overnight.

Bradford Council’s portfolio holder for Healthy People and Places Cllr Sarah Ferriby said: ‘It is great to see improvements in our vehicle fleet as part of our air quality and health ambitions and net zero carbon emissions targets.

‘The eCollect refuse collection vehicle will really stand out on the streets of Bradford as a zero-emissions vehicle setting the standard for the rest of our fleets.’

Dennis Eagle’s regional sales manager Andrew Christie added: ‘I’m delighted that Bradford has bought its first eCollect. Operationally, it will provide exactly what they are looking for and it will do it with zero emissions.

‘This is totally in line with the council’s Sustainable Development Action Plan and will help combat the climate emergency as well as improving local air quality.’