Ericsson claims to have made sustainability gains with the launch of a new triple-band, tri-sector 5G radio that the vendor says can do the job of nine radios.

The hardware, called Radio 6646, provides low-band spectrum capabilities that can boost both 5G and mid-band (3.5GHz) coverage.

The new radio combines 900MHz, 800MHZ, and 700MHz frequency bands into one compact radio that covers 2G through to 5G.

Ericsson says the product can save up to 40 percent in energy usage, which in Ericsson's words 'can translate to yearly savings per site that is comparable to charging an electric car 40 times'.

It's expected to save communication service providers costs for deployment and renting towers, while also reducing carbon emissions.

"This will simplify deployments and extend 5G coverage, starting in Europe. With this latest innovation, service providers can scale up 5G Standalone deployments with new applications for consumers, enterprises, and mission-critical communications," said Ericsson head of product area networks David Hammarwall.

Ericsson's 6646 radio will expand the wide-area reach, plus the outside-in coverage on rooftops, and towers to indoor locations such as offices, basements, stores, and homes.

The radio will also increase the capacity of the 5G networks and supports the 700MHz band, which is anticipated to be essential for 5G Standalone deployments.

Last year Ericsson launched its dual-band, tri-sector radio 6626, which is commercially available globally.