IVECO’s Eurocargo ML160 has been selected by Bucher Municipal as the new truck platform for its MaxPowa V65t truck-mounted sweeper (TMS), helping the equipment manufacturer meet updated Australian safety and emissions requirements while improving operational performance.
Bucher Municipal, a global manufacturer of refuse collection and municipal equipment, needed a replacement chassis for its sweeping equipment after upcoming Australian Design Rule (ADR) changes ruled out the platforms it had previously used.
Marcus Hughes, Marketing Manager – Oceania Region at Bucher Municipal, said the move to Euro 6 emissions standards and the requirement for Autonomous Emergency Braking prompted the company to review available truck platforms.
“A move from Euro 5 to Euro 6 emission standards along with the mandatory introduction of Autonomous Emergency Braking ruled out the two cab chassis that we had been using,” Hughes said.
He explained that after evaluating several options, the latest generation Eurocargo ML160 offered the compliance and operational characteristics required for the new sweeper.
“We began an exhaustive process to find a replacement chassis and found that the latest generation Eurocargo ML160 not only met the new ADR requirements, but offered other benefits in the application compared to what we’d used previously.” IVECO helps Bucher Municipal ac…
Emissions and powertrain
The Eurocargo ML160 is equipped with a Euro 6 Step E engine producing 250hp and 850Nm of torque, paired with a ZF eight-speed fully automatic transmission optimised for low-speed, stop-start applications typical of street sweeping.
The engine is also compatible with paraffinic biofuels such as HVO and XTL, alongside standard EN 590 diesel blends, giving operators flexibility as fleets consider lower-emission fuel options.
IVECO introduced Euro 6-rated Eurocargo models to Australia in 2017 and has continued refining emissions performance since then.
Safety and manoeuvrability
The ML160 platform includes a suite of safety systems such as Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Departure Warning, Advanced Driver Assistance Systems and Emergency Stop Signal technology.
For municipal operations, the 3,690mm wheelbase provides improved manoeuvrability in tight urban environments.
“The wheelbase is shorter than what we’ve used before and this gives us a better turning circle and improved manoeuvrability, especially when working in tighter areas such as cul-de-sacs and inner-city laneways,” Hughes said.
He added that driver comfort was also a factor in selecting the platform.
“Other highlights of the Eurocargo for us are the dual air-suspended ISRI seats which provide a smooth and comfortable ride for the driver.”
Co-engineered sweeper solution
IVECO and Bucher Municipal worked together to configure the chassis for the sweeper application. Several components, including the exhaust assembly, emission after-treatment system, tanks and battery box, are relocated to simplify body integration.
The truck is also supplied with provisions for dual controls, including a second steering arm on the front axle and additional mounting brackets, allowing operators to control the vehicle from the left-hand side during sweeping operations.
MaxPowa V65t sweeper body
Mounted on the Eurocargo platform is Bucher Municipal’s MaxPowa V65t sweeper body. The unit features a 6.5m³ hopper capacity and payload of more than 4.8 tonnes, allowing longer operating periods between emptying cycles.
Several technologies are designed to improve efficiency and usability. ‘Coolflow’ directs additional airflow through the radiator and powerpack to enhance cooling performance while reducing energy consumption. Meanwhile, ‘Smoothflow’ optimises airflow through the system to increase suction efficiency and reduce noise levels.
Operational controls are managed through a single 10-inch touchscreen console inside the cabin, providing access to vehicle cameras, gauges and sweeper controls from either side of the cab. The system replaces earlier dual-screen layouts used in previous models.
The sweeper also includes Bucher Connect telematics for monitoring operational performance and usage.
Demonstrator units in service
Bucher Municipal has produced four demonstrator vehicles built on the Eurocargo ML160 platform, which have been operating around Australia since mid-2025. Early operator feedback has been positive.
“We’re receiving comments on the outstanding visibility, the great turning circle, the high level of comfort and the aesthetics of the Eurocargo,” Hughes said.
“Other feedback is that the brakes are excellent, that the drivers like the push-button engine start on both sides of the cabin and that the way the mirrors adjust in sequence is handy.”
The combination of the Eurocargo chassis and the MaxPowa V65t sweeper body highlights how truck OEMs and specialist equipment manufacturers are collaborating to meet changing safety, emissions and operational requirements in municipal fleets.
