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Latest Rosenbauer America news & announcements

Rosenbauer Fire Apparatus At FDIC International 2025 Expo

Rosenbauer America, a pioneering manufacturer of fire apparatus and firefighting equipment, will be showcasing its latest advancements in technology at FDIC International 2025 in Indianapolis, IN. Attendees are invited to visit Rosenbauer's indoor exhibit (booth #3413) at the Indiana Convention Center (ICC) and the outdoor demonstration area on South Street to experience firsthand the company's commitment to unmatched operational performance and firefighter safety. Featured Fire Apparatus Rosenbauer’s FDIC 2025 exhibit will include a comprehensive lineup of fire apparatus designed to meet the diverse needs of fire departments for multiple vocational applications: RTX Electric Pumper  PANTHER electric ARFF  COMMANDER™ Custom Industrial Foam Pumper  COMMANDER™ King Cobra 101’ Articulating Aerial Platform  COMMANDER™ Cobra 100’ Mid Mount Aerial Platform  COMMANDER™ T-Rex Aerial Platform  COMMANDER™ Viper 78’ Aerial Ladder  COMMANDER™ Side Mount Custom Pumper  COMMANDER™ Top Mount Custom Pumper  COMMANDER™ Custom Pumper with IDEX SAM System  WARRIOR™ Custom Rescue  International™ LCS Commercial Pumper  Freightliner™ Commercial Wildland Urban Interface (WUI)  Innovative Fire Apparatus Technology Rosenbauer will also highlight its advanced technologies designed to enhance firefighting and rescue capabilities for municipalities, industrial sites, and airports: NEW Custom Industrial Foam Pumper: Engineered for extreme hazard environments, this pumper delivers exceptional pumping capabilities combined with world-class foam proportioning with superior monitor performance for industrial firefighting applications. NEW PANTHER electric ARFF: As the first fully electric ARFF vehicle, the PANTHER electric delivers powerful firefighting capabilities with zero emissions, contributing to a more sustainable future for airport fire services. Logic Control System (LCS): Providing a uniform, intuitive user interface across Rosenbauer vehicles, the LCS simplifies operations in the most challenging situations. Operators can easily control the pump, foam system, monitors, scene lights, and other critical functions from multiple points on the apparatus, allowing personnel to focus on the critical mission at hand. Rosenbauer RTX Electric Pumper: The revolutionary RTX electric pumper offers a modular design with an electric drivetrain, providing exceptional maneuverability, reduced noise for improved communications, incredible ergonomics for firefighter health and safety, and lower emissions. King Cobra Articulating Aerial Platform: This unique articulating aerial platform provides unparalleled reach and the ability to navigate around obstacles, offering firefighters access to previously unreachable areas. RTE Robot: A versatile remote-controlled robot designed for hazardous environments, the RTE Robot can assist with reconnaissance, suppression, and other critical tasks, enhancing fire ground safety. Battery Extinguishing System Technology (BEST): This advanced technology offers an innovative and effective method for extinguishing fires in electric vehicles and battery storage systems. Drill-X: This unique handheld tool combines drilling and suppression capabilities in one system, allowing firefighters to quickly penetrate structures and apply water directly to the fire source. Cuttex: A powerful handheld cutting tool designed for rapid breaching of various materials that provides firefighters with efficient access during multiple operational scenarios. Rosenbauer N & NH Pumps: These high-performance pumps are engineered for reliable and efficient water delivery, providing the necessary pressure and flow for effective fire suppression. Rosenbauer Live Demonstrations Attendees are encouraged to visit Rosenbauer’s outdoor demonstration area on South Street to experience the performance of Rosenbauer apparatus firsthand: Aerial Demonstrations: Experience the incredible capabilities of the Viper Aerial Ladder, Cobra Aerial Platform, King Cobra Articulating Aerial Platform, and the T-Rex Aerial Platform. Attendees will be able to explore their reach, maneuverability, stability, and operational ease. HEAT Event Participation: Rosenbauer will participate in the Handling, Evaluation, and Tactics (HEAT) event each day, showcasing the unsurpassed capabilities of the PANTHER electric and RTX electric fire apparatus, as well as the versatility of the RTE Robot in live fire scenarios. RTX and PANTHER Electric Ride & Drive: Following the HEAT events, attendees will have the opportunity to get behind the wheel and experience the innovative electric drivetrains of the RTX fire apparatus and PANTHER electric ARFF. RTE Robot Operation: Take control of the Rosenbauer RTE Robot and explore its diverse applications for fire departments, from reconnaissance and victim location to remote firefighting. Handheld Firefighting Tools: Test the effectiveness of the Rosenbauer Drill-X and Cuttex at interactive demonstration stations, experiencing their capabilities in simulated roof cutting and wall breaching scenarios. Fire Department Coffee Meet & Greet A highlight at Rosenbauer America’s indoor exhibit (booth #3413) will be the daily serving of Fire Department Coffee (FDC). Attendees are invited to start their day or grab an afternoon pick-me-up with a cup of FDC. Adding to the excitement, special guests Jason Patton and Firefighter Fenton from Fire Department Coffee will be making an appearance for a meet and greet on Friday, April 11, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM (ET).

Rosenbauer Unveils Custom Industrial Foam Pumper

Rosenbauer America announces the launch of its new Custom Industrial Foam Pumper, a state-of-the-art fire apparatus specifically designed to tackle the unique and demanding challenges of industrial firefighting. Developed with insights gained through close collaboration with customers, this vehicle integrates Rosenbauer's exclusive technologies to deliver unparalleled performance, reliability, and ease of use in high-stakes environments. Fuel loads and extreme heat Industrial fires, often occurring at refineries, petrochemical plants, terminals, and operations Industrial fires, often occurring at refineries, petrochemical plants, terminals, and other manufacturing operations, differ significantly from typical municipal fires.  They frequently involve massive fuel loads and extreme heat, demanding exceptionally high water and foam solution flow rates – often starting at 3,000-4,000 gallons per minute (GPM) and potentially requiring 6,000 to 10,000 GPM or more. Cooling and foam solution for extinguishment control Effective response requires specialized equipment capable of delivering large volumes of water for cooling and foam solution for extinguishment and reignition control.  While industrial sites often have robust water mains and fixed systems, these can be compromised in catastrophic events, making self-sufficient, high-capacity mobile apparatus essential. Integrating cutting-edge pump technology Rosenbauer Custom Industrial Foam Pumper is built around core abilities vital for industrial response "Industrial fires present unique risks that demand specialized solutions," said Chris Kleinhuizen, Chief Engineer at Rosenbauer America. "Our updated Industrial Foam Pumper is engineered from the ground up to meet these extreme demands. By integrating our cutting-edge pump technology, advanced foam proportioning systems, and intuitive controls, we provide industrial firefighters with the powerful, dependable tools they need to protect lives, assets, and the surrounding communities." The Rosenbauer Custom Industrial Foam Pumper is built around core capabilities essential for industrial response, including a large capacity water pump (6,000 GPM+), an integrated Class B foam system, large diameter discharges, and high-flow monitors and nozzles capable of delivering thousands of gallons per minute of water and foam solution precisely where needed. Exclusive Rosenbauer Technologies Deliver Performance Rosenbauer differentiates its Custom Industrial Foam Pumper with several exclusive, integrated technologies: Rosenbauer N200 Carbon Fiber Pump: A revolutionary pump featuring a high-strength, corrosion-resistant, carbon fiber housing and impeller. This exclusive design allows the N200 to flow an impressive 6,500 GPM from draft, providing unmatched water delivery capability. It boasts a high-efficiency design, durable gearbox, self-adjusting mechanical seal, and a 5-year warranty. Rosenbauer Advanced Foam Proportioning Technology: Offering exceptional versatility and precision, the Rosenbauer HYDROMATIC™ direct injection foam system allows manual stepless proportioning adjustment (typically 1-6% or 1-9%, with optional ranges) per discharge and multi-step electrical adjustments for monitor operations. It can handle various foam concentrate viscosities, drawing from multiple tanks or external sources, and ensures no foam contaminates reach the main water pump. Its design includes user-friendly controls, automatic priming, and a reliable emergency operation mode. Rosenbauer G-series gear pumps (up to 300 GPM) provide robust foam concentrate delivery. Rosenbauer Logic Control System (LCS): Providing a uniform, intuitive user interface across Rosenbauer vehicles, the LCS simplifies operation. Operators can easily control the pump, foam system, monitors, scene lights, and other critical functions from multiple points on the apparatus, allowing personnel to focus on the emergency task at hand. Rosenbauer Monitors and Nozzles: High-capacity monitors combined with Rosenbauer’s specialized nozzles provide the ultimate delivery system. Rosenbauer’s RM130 main deck gun at 4,000 GPM and two (2) Rosenbauer RM80 auxiliary deck guns at 2,500 GPM each, create an integrated system with overall capabilities of 9,000 GPM. This enables effective agent delivery at significant distances and an effective footprint. See the Future of Industrial Firefighting The updated Rosenbauer Industrial Foam Pumper will be showcased at the upcoming FDIC International 2025 conference in Indianapolis, IN, from April 10-12, 2025. Following the FDIC, the truck will embark on a demonstration tour across multiple locations. Fire departments and industrial facilities interested in learning more or requesting a demonstration stop during the tour are encouraged to contact Rosenbauer America.

Rosenbauer PANTHER 6x6 Electric Vehicle Deployed At Dallas Love Field Airport

Rosenbauer America and the Dallas Fire Rescue Department have entered into an innovative partnership aimed at the joint further development of the PANTHER 6x6 electric through to series production. The pre-series vehicle will be delivered in mid-2025 and will operate at Dallas Love Field Airport (DAL), making it the first airport to receive a PANTHER 6x6 electric.  6-month test phase The Dallas Fire-Rescue Department plays an important role as a cooperation partner. During the approximately 6-month test phase, the vehicle will be put through its paces. Tests will include integration into daily operations, performance compared to the current fleet, and functionality in training operations. The insights gained are passed on to the product team and flow directly into further development. After the completion of the testing phase, the PANTHER 6x6 electric will be integrated into the fleet as a regular operational vehicle.  sustainable technology "The Dallas Fire Rescue Department is proud and excited for the opportunity to partner with Rosenbauer in the creation and development of a new and sustainable technology that will help lower our carbon footprint, while ensuring the safety of our residents and millions of travelers who fly through Dallas Love Field every year," said Interim Fire Chief - Justin Ball.  Sebastian Wolf, CEO of Rosenbauer International, said "With the PANTHER 6x6 electric, we are setting a new benchmark in terms of performance and emission reduction in the field of airport firefighting vehicles. We are proud to test and deploy this new technology together with the Dallas Fire-Rescue Department."  fire protection and emergency medical care DFR is responsible for fire protection and emergency medical care for the City of Dallas The Dallas Fire-Rescue Department (DFR) is responsible for fire protection and emergency medical care for the City of Dallas and therefore, also oversees the fleet of firefighting vehicles at Dallas Love Field Airport, where the PANTHER 6x6 electric will be used at DAL ARFF Station 21.  The City of Dallas' Aviation department pays particular attention to sustainability and plans to be emission-free by 2040. To achieve this goal, the existing fire station is being redesigned and rebuilt as part of the 'DAL ARFF Station 21 Replacement' project. minimize response times The new fire station at DAL will not only be modern and optimally positioned to minimize response times but will also be geared toward energy efficiency and sustainability. This also includes gradually replacing the fleet vehicles with vehicles with alternative drive systems.  "We are excited to collaborate with the Dallas Fire Rescue Department and Dallas Love Field as partners to advance the PANTHER 6x6 electric. Findings from real operating conditions in Dallas Love Field will be incorporated into the optimization of the vehicle. This paves the way for airports to further reduce their carbon footprint in the future by using low-emission vehicles," said Andreas Zeller, Chief Sales Officer of Rosenbauer International.  Level 4 – Transformation in the ACA program DAL, the busiest medium hub airport in the U.S., is one of only five airports in the country In May 2024, Dallas Love Field expanded to its carbon neutrality status and achieved Level 4 – Transformation in the Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) Program. This made DAL, the busiest medium hub airport in the U.S., one of only five airports in the country, and one of two airports in Texas certified at Level 4 or higher in the Program.  self-funded city entity The self-funded city entity recently served over 17.6 million passengers in 2023, the most in its history, and is the sole funding source for this innovative development. On average, the airport’s airfield accommodates 675 aircraft operations per day and ranks third busiest in private aircraft traffic. Such high activity demonstrates the need for top-of-the-line safety infrastructure and rapid response times in an emergency.  first pre-series vehicles In addition to the pre-series PANTHER 6x6 electric for Dallas, three prototypes have been produced and tested at the Leonding site (Austria). Since early October 2024, emergency organizations have been able to order the new PANTHER 6x6 electric. The first pre-series vehicles could be delivered as early as the end of 2025.  PANTHER 6x6 electric  Rosenbauer presented a series-ready concept vehicle of the PANTHER 6x6 electric at Interschutz With the PANTHER 6x6 electric, another Rosenbauer fire truck is available to accompany fire departments into a new era. In 2022, Rosenbauer presented a series-ready concept vehicle of the PANTHER 6x6 electric at Interschutz in Hanover, Germany.   Like the models with combustion engines, the PANTHER 6x6 electric offers outstanding performance. It accelerates purely electrically from 0 to 50 mph in under 25 seconds. In 'Boost Mode', this acceleration can even be achieved in under 20 seconds. A low center of gravity and a chassis perfectly matched to the application also ensure outstanding driving dynamics in every situation. The water pump can also be operated electrically at full capacity (2370 gpm).  Electric drive platform The electric drive platform developed by Rosenbauer for the PANTHER 6x6 electric, with its associated high-voltage batteries provides sufficient energy for the two- to three-minute drive to the operation site, the discharge of the entire extinguishing agent, and the return trip by the requirements of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Initial tests with prototypes show that multiple operational or movement drives can be completed on a single battery charge.  ARFF vehicle The aircraft rescue and firefighting (ARFF) vehicle combines the safety and functionality of the current generation with the advantages of electric mobility, such as a reduction in noise and emissions. In addition to meeting global standards and airport requirements such as ICAO, NFPA 414/1900, or FAA, the PANTHER 6x6 electric is designed to help the airport sector effectively reduce its carbon footprint.  Direct and alternating current An Energy Backup System is installed in the vehicle to ensure continuous use The PANTHER 6x6 electric can be charged with both direct and alternating current and has a maximum charging capacity of 300 kW. This means the vehicle is ready for the next electric operation in less than 20 minutes. An Energy Backup System is installed in the vehicle to ensure continuous use and the vehicle's unrestricted operational capability. Power and sustainability Rosenbauer is convinced that the PANTHER 6x6 electric can handle well over 90% of its daily tasks, including operations and training exercises, entirely on electric power. Designed as a high-performance airport rescue and firefighting vehicle, it provides emergency crews with an environmentally friendly and more efficient working environment. With the PANTHER 6x6 electric, Rosenbauer is setting a new standard in combining power and sustainability. 

Insights & Opinions from thought leaders at Rosenbauer America

Electric Fire Vehicles Gaining Momentum Among Early Adopters

The adoption of electric fire apparatus is accelerating their footprint in the industry. Fire departments from Los Angeles to Madison, Wis., from Portland, Ore., to Mesa, Ariz., have embraced the technology of electric and hybrid vehicles in the fire industry and are demonstrating the practical capabilities of this new generation of technology for the fire service. Sustainable commitment More municipalities worldwide are committing to sustainability and climate goals. Furthermore, truck producers in general are converting to electric drive systems. In the future, there will be fewer chassis available with conventional drivelines, making it necessary for fire trucks to go electric. Electric fire apparatus An electric fire engine is an innovative tool that will help reduce noise and harmful diesel emissions Electric fire apparatus made a big splash at recent trade shows, notably FDIC International in the United States and INTERSCHUTZ in Germany. An electric fire engine is an innovative tool that will help reduce noise and harmful diesel emissions and provide a flexible tool for firefighting and rescue operations from a technologically advanced platform. At INTERSCHUTZ, Rosenbauer presented a complete range of electric emergency vehicles, from municipal fire trucks including fully electric aerial ladders to Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) vehicles. fully electric fire truck A fully electric fire truck currently going into service in Los Angeles is the result of 10 years of research and development, with the Los Angeles City Fire Department working closely with Rosenbauer America to address the challenges and obstacles of deploying the truck within the city’s system. Two more Rosenbauer electric trucks are being demonstrated in fire departments in the U.S. and Canada, and another truck is coming next year. Rosenbauer projects that half of all vehicles they deliver to fire departments should be electrified by 2030. Addressing the issues with an electric truck Training and operations must be considered when replacing a traditional apparatus with a new electric truck Issues such as training and operations must be considered when replacing a traditional apparatus with a new electric truck. One change is more space available on the electric truck for equipment storage, says Rosenbauer. The City of Madison, Wis., Fire Department is deploying an Enforcer Volterra Pumper from Pierce Manufacturing Inc. The apparatus uses an “electro-mechanical infinitely variable transmission” that can switch imperceptibly between the electric and diesel modes. Fine-tuning the design The Volterra pumper will work on the front lines at Station 8, the city’s busiest fire station. Madison Fire Department worked with Pierce to “fine-tune” the design. The department seeks to have their electric trucks “mimic” the operation of the older trucks. In Madison, the city’s fleet manager is driving a push toward electrification throughout the vehicles used by the city; the Pierce apparatus enables the fire department to deliver on that expectation. The city anticipates buying two or three additional electric fire trucks in the next year or so. E-One Vector fire truck Additional features include a battery storage solution that offers a safer, lower center of gravity and regenerative braking EV Fire Group announced the all-electric E-One Vector fire truck last August and debuted it in multiple presentations on the FDIC International show floor in April 2022. The customizable Vector features a long electric pumping duration that allows four hose lines to be used for four hours on a single charge. Additional features include a battery storage solution that offers a safer, lower center of gravity and regenerative braking. cost-savings and efficiency Mesa, Ariz., is the first city to order the Vector, with delivery expected this year. The rig supports the City of Mesa’s Climate Action Plan, to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. They expect the new rig will demonstrate potential cost-savings and efficiency of electric vehicles throughout city operations. In developing Vector, REV Fire Group worked closely with customers to identify their needs and fine-tune the product based on feedback. Volterra platform Oshkosh provides a Volterra platform for a hybrid ARFF vehicle, which is debuting at airports Pierce Manufacturing and Oshkosh Airport combined efforts to introduce the Volterra platform of vehicles for the fire and emergency market. Oshkosh provides a Volterra platform for a hybrid Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) vehicle, which is debuting at airports across the United States. Innovative fire suppression technology The hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) meets the emergency response needs among airports. The first Striker ARFF deployment is at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. Available on 4x4 and 6x6 chassis platforms, the Striker Volterra delivers superior chassis performance, advanced safety systems, innovative fire suppression technology, reliability, and durability.

Attendance Spikes, Innovation Shines At ‘Regularly Scheduled’ FDIC Show

Firefighters are flocking to Indianapolis for FDIC International. Much of the week-long event is dedicated to classroom instruction and hands-on training. Connecting and networking In addition to learning, firefighters are connecting and networking on a scale unprecedented since the pandemic. There is also a spirit of gratitude to first responders for keeping communities safe. For the first time, FDIC International is co-locating with the JEMS Conference and Expo for the EMS market. Equipment manufacturers emphasize new technology in a large exhibit hall at FDIC International, where firefighters can see and touch the latest products, from protective clothing to hand-held devices to large fire apparatus. The event even spills into the outdoors, where displays comprise large aerial equipment and activities include skill competitions. Interact directly with firefighters It’s a unique trade show that enables end-user engagement with 30,000 firefighters" Exhibitors embrace the opportunity to interface directly with firefighters. “It’s a unique trade show that enables end-user engagement with 30,000 firefighters,” said Jason Traynor, MSA Safety’s General Manager of Global Fire Service Products.” “They can meet with us directly, get a sense of who MSA is, how we operate, the kind of people we employ. Coming to the show is about that connection with the people who have to do the work and have committed themselves to a selfless career.” G1 SCBA and LUNAR “It’s about the time we get to spend with the people, and introducing new technologies is also important." The MCA Safety exhibit emphasizes the company’s focus on human-centered design and products that work together in a connected firefighter platform. They include the G1 SCBA (self-contained breathing apparatus) and the LUNAR-connected handheld device, which complements the SCBA with search-and-rescue and thermal imaging capabilities. The two are connected and can send data back and forth. If either goes into alarm, LUNAR becomes a beacon that can help firefighters locate a partner based on the signal strength of the beacon. In effect, the combination provides objective data to aid decision-making in an emergency. Fotokite tethered drone, software MCA is highlighting the Fotokite tethered drone, which hovers above a fire scene and provides situational awareness MCA is also highlighting the Fotokite tethered drone, which hovers above a fire scene and provides situational awareness (with visual or thermal imaging) and connectivity to understand the fire scene better. MCA’s software helps departments monitor people, processes, and products for a deeper understanding of the work they do. The broader ecosystem enables them to view firefighting more holistically. Gas Laser National Gas Leak Detector The FDIC show is the first since the pandemic to occur at its regularly scheduled time. One exhibitor estimates attendance is about triple what he saw at the show last August, almost back to 100% of the pre-pandemic level. In addition to firefighter attendees, who were willing to brave the threat of COVID, many distributors and sales reps are returning to the show. Teletype Gas Measurement Instruments had two orders pending just one hour after the exhibition opened, said Alan Skinner, Regional Manager. Teledyne’s Gas Laser Natural Gas Leak Detector is a handheld device that can quickly scan common venting points from a safe distance. AttackPRO handheld thermal imaging camera Several exhibitors at the show mention the usefulness of feedback from users and show attendees in guiding product design. Seek Thermal employed information about real problems in the field when designing its AttackPRO handheld thermal imaging camera, introduced at the show. The simple, durable product is easy to control; there are only two buttons, so no confusion in an emergency. Situational awareness A smaller camera provides situational awareness, while the new product is more for decision-making The AttackPRO complements Seek Thermal’s smaller and familiar RevealFirePROX camera, an affordable personal thermal imaging camera for everyone in a department. The smaller camera provides situational awareness, while the new product is more for decision-making and is a “fire attack tool,” said Brent LaSala, Director, Global Marketing at Seek Thermal. Comfortable clothing Clothing for firefighters makes up a big part of the show floor, and the trend is toward more comfortable clothing with a better range of motion. 5.11 Tactical is approaching the challenge with flexible fabrics, including a poly-cotton blend, and adjusted fit. The trend extends to the company’s lighter-weight jackets, outerwear, and duty uniforms, which seek to combine an “old-school” aesthetic with better comfort, said Aaron Shick, Sr. Manager, Strategic Accounts and Channels, 5.11 Tactical. fully electric fire truck Resulting from 10 years of research and development, the electric apparatus is a reinvention of the fire truck Rosenbauer America showed off a fully electric fire truck, which will go into service next month at the Los Angeles City Fire Department. Resulting from 10 years of research and development, the electric apparatus is a reinvention of the fire truck from the ground up. Rosenbauer worked closely with the Los Angeles Department to address the specific challenges and obstacles of how the new truck fits into the city’s needs. Revolutionary Technology electric truck The Rosenbauer RTX (Revolutionary Technology) electric truck can travel 60 miles before it needs a charge and can operate 30 to 90 minutes at a fire scene before needing a charge; the average fire call is about 25 minutes. If the battery depletes to 20%, a diesel generator kicks in and can power the truck for several hours for an extreme fire. The truck is also 8,000 pounds lighter than a conventional apparatus. The 13kW Volvo Penta drivetrain is powerful, reliable, and noise- and emissions-free. Training and operating procedures “Anything that a traditional apparatus needs to do, this truck does, and more,” said Mark Fusco, VP of Sales & Marketing, Rosenbauer America. In Berlin, Germany, a similar truck has been operating for several months in an initial trial. It ran 440 calls and only needed to engage its generator to recharge two times. “In deploying this truck, departments will need to consider various factors such as training and operating procedures,” says Fusco. NFPA-approved truck “You can fit more loose equipment on this truck because there is more usable space. This is an NFPA-approved truck, and it is exceeding expectations.” Two more Rosenbauer electric trucks are being demonstrated in fire departments in the U.S. and Canada, and another truck is coming next year.

Hybrid And Electric Fire Vehicles Coming To A Department Near You

Local governments in the U.S. are embracing electric and hybrid vehicles in a big way, and many states have implemented incentives to promote adoption of the futuristic technologies. However, fire department vehicles and apparatus are yet to embrace the transition, largely because vehicles were not available that both meet the needs of firefighters and provide environmental advantages. However, fire vehicle technology is farther along the electric and hybrid path than some people realize. Electric and hybrid vehicles for the fire service are making their way into the market and may be deployed soon in a neighborhood near you. Zero-Emissions pumper Oshkosh Corp., which includes Pierce Manufacturing, has introduced the Volterra platform of electric vehicles for the fire and emergency market. The first Pierce Volterra zero-emissions pumper has been placed in service with the Madison, Wis., Fire Department, making it the first electric fire truck in service in North America. The Volterra pumper is serving front-line duty at Station 8, the City of Madison’s busiest fire station. The department is made up of 14 fire stations serving 100 square miles and a population of more than 250,000. The Volterra electric vehicle configuration weighs 42,000 lbs., seats six, has a 1500 GPM single-stage pump, 500-gallon water tank, 150 cu ft of compartmentation plus ladder storage, and a hose capacity of 1000 feet of 5-in hose. Pierce Manufacturing and Oshkosh Airport Products have introduced the Volterra™ platform of electric vehicles for the fire and emergency market Infinitely variable transmission An Oshkosh parallel-electric drivetrain with an electro-mechanical infinitely variable transmission allows zero-emissions operation when powered by onboard batteries. An internal combustion engine provides uninterrupted power to the pumping system or drive system. The first Striker ARFF will be delivered to the Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport Fire Department Oshkosh also provides a Volterra platform for a hybrid Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) vehicle, which is debuting at airports across the United States. The hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) meets the growing emergency response needs among airports of all sizes in an environmentally conscious way. Firefighters will be able to experience the technology first-hand. The first Striker ARFF will be delivered to the Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) Fire Department in late summer 2021. Advanced safety systems Available on a 4x4 and 6x6 chassis platforms, the Striker Volterra performance hybrid delivers superior chassis performance, advanced safety systems, innovative fire suppression technology, reliability and durability. In April, Rosenbauer America’s Revolutionary Technology (RT) concept truck made its national debut in Washington, D.C., displayed for members of the Senate and firefighters based on the district. The viewing was held as Congress considers an infrastructure and jobs plan. “The Rosenbauer RT is the fire truck of the future,” says John Slawson, CEO and President of Rosenbauer America. “Build from the ground up using advanced materials and technologies, the RT is the safest fire truck on the roads today – for firefighters, for communities and for the environment.” The fully electric apparatus features a high level of safety, excellent driving dynamics and maneuverability and is fully networked. Rosenbauer's Revolutionary Technology (RT) fully electric fire truck visits Engine 3 in Washington, D.C. Auxiliary equipment chargers The RT’s electric drive is powerful and noise emission-free. The electric drive train ensures that almost no fuel is combusted while driving. Lighting and auxiliary equipment chargers are also powered by the batteries. A local power grid can be created with up to 14 kW operated simultaneously via the power outlet. A built-in range extender (REX) comprises a small diesel engine powering a large generator Conceived as a multi-purpose vehicle, the RT is a pumper first and foremost, a connected mobile command unit, and a vehicle for assistance in wildland fires. A built-in range extender (REX) comprises a small diesel engine powering a large generator. Volvo Penta developed the electric driveline for Rosenbauer’s RT fire truck, which is also being tested in fire departments in Berlin, Amsterdam and Dubai. Pioneering electric drivelines “After many years of successful collaboration with Rosenbauer, we are proud to be pioneering electric drivelines and partnering with them on this revolutionary project,” says Paul Jansson, Chief Product Manager at Volvo Penta. “This is our first industrial OEM partnership in the area of electromobility, and it’s a big step toward creating a new product platform of the future.” The new fire truck aims to respond to global megatrends such as climate change, shifting demographics and urbanization – and their impact on the work of fire departments.  Firefighters responding to a call need a vehicle capable of high speed, rapid acceleration hard braking and maneuverability.

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