Quebec based Labrie Environmental Group has won the 2009 Swedish Steel Prize for its Wittke Starlight front loader refuse truck body.

According to a statement from Labrie, the jury cited the company's use of high strength steel and the precise optimization of all parts of the vehicle.

Labrie quoted Mr Martin Lindqvist chairman of the Swedish Steel Prize jury as saying that "The designers have been successful in optimizing the design in order to reduce weight, but without compromising on strength and functionality."

The Wittke Starlight is a front loader refuse collection truck that has around 700 kilograms higher payload capacity than earlier models, according to the company. The truck is lighter and can achieve higher compaction of the refuse in the container, according to the company.

The Swedish Steel Prize was created in 1999.

(Sourced from www.wasteage.com)