The Los Angeles City Fire Department (LAFD) will purchase an electric fire engine from Austrian-based manufacturer Rosenbauer. Based on Rosenbauer’s Concept Fire Truck, the vehicle will be customized for the LAFD’s specific needs. The EV will have two batteries and a charge capacity of 100 kWh, allowing for about two hours of operation, according to the company. An on-board diesel generator can be used for extended operations.

The LAFD will install rapid-charging technology in the station that will house the vehicle, likely Fire Station 82 in Hollywood. Delivery is scheduled for early 2021.

LAFD Chief Ralph Terrazas said, “The electric fire engine is an innovative tool that will help reduce noise and harmful diesel emissions while providing a flexible tool for firefighting and rescue operations from a technologically advanced platform. We are looking forward to evaluating it in a real-world environment once it hits the streets of Hollywood next year.”

Dieter Siegel, CEO of Rosenbauer International, described the vehicle as “multi-functional, fully connected, and its flexible interior can be used as a fully featured command center. Its floor can be lowered facilitating minimum boarding and working levels.”

Source: LAFP