The Los Angeles Fire Department is taking a step towards a greener future.
Our sister station, KFI AM 640, reports that the agency has signed with an Austrian company, making it the first firefighting agency in North American to buy an electric fire truck. The announcement occurred today (02/10/20). KFI adds that the electric fire truck is expected to be fully operational in about a year.
LAFD Chief Ralph Terrazas told reporters that the vehicle will be customized based on LAFD needs and will still meet all National Fire Protection Association safety standards. Terrazas adds that new electric truck will likely be assigned to Fire Station 82 in Hollywood, in early 2021.
Here's what Terrazas said in a press release:
" 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.''
The Austrian-based company - Leonding - brought its Concept Fire Truck to Los Angeles last fall for a demonstration. KFI adds the engine is powered by two batteries with a charge capacity of 100 kilowatt hours, enabling fully electric operation for roughly two hours. Additionally, the new electric firetruck will come with an on-board diesel generator can be activated for extended operations.
The LAFD will equip the fire station that houses the electric fire truck with rapid-charging technology to ensure the apparatus is always ready to respond to calls for service.
PHOTOS: Via LAFD Official Instagram Account