Vancouver hopes to be the first city in Canada with an electric fire truck, reports the Vancouver Sun, as the city has ordered a $1.5 million Rosenbauer RT pumper.
The RT has a charging capacity of up to 150 kW, which means that the built-in batteries can be recharged in no time at all. This means that purely electric and therefore emission-free short-range operation is not a problem, even when used very frequently in big cities. Due to the built-in range extender, the RT can also run on diesel when needed, without any limitations.
When the vehicle comes to a standstill, the engine is automatically deactivated. The lighting and equipment are powered directly by the batteries. This greatly reduces the noise level at the scene of the emergency, making it easier for the crew to work, reducing stress, and benefiting nearby residents. The RT’s electric drive is not only powerful, but also emission-free. The batteries ensure that no fuel is combusted while driving.
Fire officials expect to have the apparatus inspected a year from now and responding to calls by mid-2023.
Leave a Reply