Merlo Group's commitment to the environment is a long-standing value, reflected in its investments in energy efficiency, digitalisation and sustainable architecture.
San Defendente di Cervasca (CN), 3 july 2025 - Respect for the environment is much more than a corporate value for Merlo: it is an actual strategy that runs through every stage of production, from the first component to the finished machine. The Piedmont-based company is recognised worldwide for its advanced handling solutions, but today it reveals how sustainability has become the driving force behind its current and future industrial transformation.
Clean energy and smart factories.
In 2024, the photovoltaic system at the production site generated 1150 MWh of renewable energy, avoiding the emission of approximately 750 tonnes of CO₂ - equivalent to the annual absorption capacity of over 4500 trees. The goal is ambitious: to achieve energy parity, i.e. to produce all the energy needed for the plant internally.
This “green energy” is only part of this commitment. Merlo's green transition also involves investments in energy efficiency, digitalisation and sustainable architecture. The main measures include the complete replacement of lighting with low-consumption LED systems; the introduction of twilight sensors and automatic temperature control in production areas; new buildings with enhanced insulation and reduced heating requirements; optimisation of internal logistics and renewal of equipment to reduce consumption.
360° responsibility.
Merlo has embarked on this virtuous path by also adopting various practices aimed at sustainable waste management and responsible use of resources. Within the plant, more than 30 compacting presses manage the daily recycling of materials such as cardboard and plastic, while metal shavings and scrap sheet metal are carefully recovered for reintroduction into the production cycle.
The daily behaviour of employees also plays an important role: for example, the habit of turning off IT equipment when not in use is encouraged, a small action that, when repeated on a large scale, contributes to significant energy savings. In toilet facilities, the installation of sensor-activated taps helps to reduce water consumption, while the digitisation of processes has drastically reduced the use of paper, transferring communications and documentation to digital platforms.
Generation Zero: the new generation of sustainable machines.
Merlo also invests in Research & Development every year in order to meet the growing demand of its target market.
The Cuneo-based company has thus developed a series of sustainability-oriented work vehicles, which represent the heart of its Generation Zero range. These vehicles are designed to minimise emissions and optimise energy efficiency. Here are some of the most relevant models:
- e-WORKER, the fully electric telehandler, designed to reduce pollutant emissions and noise impact. Thanks to its rechargeable battery and regenerative braking, this model guarantees excellent performance with zero emissions and low noise levels. It is ideal for urban environments or sensitive areas where air and noise pollution must be kept to a minimum.
- ROTO Plug & Play Hybrid, the hybrid telehandler, which combines an electric motor and thermal engine, significantly reducing emissions compared to traditional models. Its ability to operate in both electric and thermal modes allows for greater flexibility, ensuring high performance with a reduced environmental impact.
- M600TD-E, the compact electric tracked carrier, developed for operations in confined spaces or indoor environments. The electric version of this model reduces emissions and improves efficiency in applications where access is limited and operations must be quiet and sustainable.
Finally, lithium batteries, fitted as standard on electric fleets, are another key component in Merlo's sustainability strategy, particularly for vehicles in the Generation Zero line. The adoption of lithium batteries offers numerous advantages in terms of energy efficiency, durability and reduced emissions.
In short, sustainability for Merlo is not a goal, but an evolutionary path that integrates technology, responsibility and long-term vision. With effective measures at the production level and an increasingly eco-friendly range of machines, the Group confirms its role as a leader in the green transition in the global market for construction and agricultural work vehicles.
