Rosenbauer introduces new fully electric PANTHER 6×6 vehicle for emergency services

Rosenbauer launches PANTHER 6×6 electric vehicle for airport firefighting

As reported by Rosenbauer, emergency services can now place orders for the new PANTHER 6×6 electric vehicle.

The fully electric Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting Vehicle (ARFF) offers improved acceleration and top speed compared to conventional models.

It also significantly reduces CO2 emissions, supporting the aviation sector’s climate protection goals.

The first pre-series vehicles are expected to be delivered by the end of 2025.

Andreas Zeller, Chief Sales Officer at Rosenbauer International, said: “With the PANTHER 6×6 electric, we want to once again set the standard in a product category by combining a powerful, fully electric drive with the highest safety standards in its class.”

Performance and environmental benefits

The PANTHER 6×6 electric was developed in collaboration with airport operators and fire departments, ensuring its design meets operational requirements.

The vehicle can accelerate from 0 to 80 km/h in under 25 seconds and reach a top speed of 120 km/h, all on electric power.

It can operate at full capacity, delivering up to 9,000 litres of water per minute.

The electric drive system, which includes high-voltage batteries, can power the vehicle through multiple trips on a single charge.

Rosenbauer designed the PANTHER 6×6 electric to align with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) standards.

Charging capabilities and backup system

The vehicle’s charging system is compatible with both direct and alternating current, with a maximum charging capacity of 300 kW.

This enables the PANTHER 6×6 electric to be ready for operations in a short time.

In addition, an Energy Backup System ensures the vehicle remains operational under all conditions.

The firefighting system, including pumps, foam proportioning, and turrets, functions either electrically or with the backup system.

E-mobility expertise integrated into design

Rosenbauer drew on its experience from developing its RT/RTX series to enhance the PANTHER 6×6 electric.

The vehicle features a modern design, including a new lighting concept that improves visibility and safety.

Rosenbauer CEO, Sebastian Wolf, explained: “With the PANTHER 6×6 electric, airport fire departments around the world can now take advantage of these benefits.”

“The vehicle complies with global standards, such as ECE norms and requirements set by ICAO, FAA, and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

New PANTHER 6×6 electric vehicle offers zero-emission operation for airports: Summary

Rosenbauer has introduced the PANTHER 6×6 electric, a fully electric Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting Vehicle.

It offers better performance than conventional models, including faster acceleration and a top speed of 120 km/h.

It also supports the aviation industry’s environmental goals by reducing CO2 emissions.

The vehicle features an electric drive system, charging capabilities of up to 300 kW, and an Energy Backup System.

Developed with input from airport operators, the PANTHER 6×6 electric meets international safety and performance standards.

The first pre-series models will be available by the end of 2025.

Rosenbauer provides fully electric turntable ladder to Burgenland fire department

Rosenbauer delivers fully electric turntable ladder to Burgenland State Fire Brigade

Rosenbauer has delivered its fully electric L32A-XS turntable ladder to the Burgenland State Fire Brigade.

The handover took place in the presence of several prominent officials, including Provincial Councillor Heinrich Dorner and State Fire Brigade Commander Franz Kropf.

This electric vehicle, built on a Volvo FE Electric chassis, will be stationed at the new aerial rescue base in Eisenstadt.

Alongside the new electric turntable ladder, a conventionally powered version will remain in use.

Both models feature the same tactical firefighting capabilities, with the primary difference being the electric drive concept.

The L32A-XS electric is powered by three electric motors, supported by three lithium-ion batteries with a combined capacity of 198 kWh.

Turntable ladder features identical performance and safety

The fully electric L32A-XS offers the same performance, functionality, and reliability as a conventional turntable ladder.

Rosenbauer has ensured that the turntable ladder structure remains identical, with only the drive system differing.

Key features such as the movement profile, working height, and payload capacity remain consistent across both the electric and conventional versions.

The L32A-XS electric has a payload of 500 kg, making it suitable for transporting up to five people, including individuals in wheelchairs.

The vehicle is equipped with high-performance hydraulics for fast setup times, and the rescue basket features a fully integrated water supply with an attached water cannon for firefighting operations.

Battery capacity ensures extended operational range

The L32A-XS electric is equipped with a 198 kWh battery system, which provides sufficient power for multiple operations without requiring recharging.

For example, in a typical urban deployment with a 5 km journey and 30 minutes of light mast operation, the vehicle uses around 20 kWh of energy, leaving enough reserve for additional callouts.

In rural settings, a round trip of 60 km and extended operational use would consume approximately 52 kWh, still leaving capacity for further deployments.

To ensure continuous reliability during prolonged operations, the battery can be recharged during use if external power is available.

Charging can be carried out via standard industrial sockets or suitable direct current charging stations.

Volvo chassis supports Rosenbauer’s electric turntable ladder

The L32A-XS electric is built on a Volvo FE Electric chassis, which is powered by two electric motors generating 225 kW of continuous power.

The power is delivered through an automated 2-gear transmission system connected to the rear axle.

Additionally, a third electric motor provides power for the turntable ladder’s operation, ensuring the system is fully electric from vehicle propulsion to ladder manoeuvring.

This electric configuration allows the ladder to operate with zero emissions and reduced noise, offering an environmentally friendly solution for firefighting operations while maintaining the same safety and efficiency as conventional vehicles.

Rosenbauer provides fully electric turntable ladder to Burgenland fire department: Summary

Rosenbauer has delivered a fully electric L32A-XS turntable ladder to the Burgenland State Fire Brigade in Austria.

This new electric vehicle will be stationed at the aerial rescue base in Eisenstadt alongside a conventional ladder truck, both offering the same tactical firefighting advantages.

The L32A-XS electric, built on a Volvo FE Electric chassis, is powered by three electric motors and a 198 kWh battery system, ensuring reliable performance across multiple operations.

The vehicle is designed to handle both urban and rural firefighting scenarios, with advanced hydraulics and a 500 kg capacity rescue basket.

Rosenbauer launches HEROS H10 helmet for firefighters

Rosenbauer introduces new helmet for diverse firefighting needs

As reported by Rosenbauer, the launch of the HEROS H10 helmet comes amid increasing wildfires and floods due to climate change.

The HEROS H10 has been completely redesigned to meet the challenges of wildfires, vegetation fires, and technical rescues.

The development, which began in July 2021, has resulted in a versatile and robust helmet that complies with five European standards.

The helmet, weighing only 800 grams, offers excellent ventilation and comprehensive protection.

It will be available for order in the Rosenbauer online store starting September 2024.

The HEROS H10 meets the requirements of EN 16471, EN 16473, EN 12492, EN 1385, and EN 397 standards, making it suitable for forest and wildland firefighting, technical rescue, mountaineering, and white-water activities.

The helmet is also certified for both European and Australian markets.

Lightweight design and robust protection

The HEROS H10’s lightweight design, weighing approximately 800 grams, makes it comfortable for long operations.

It is made from highly heat- and flame-resistant plastic, providing robust protection against mechanical impacts such as falling branches or rockfalls.

The helmet also offers protection against shocks, penetration, flames, smouldering ash, and electrical and chemical hazards.

Additionally, the helmet’s shell is break-resistant, ensuring high durability.

Improved ventilation contributes to user comfort during extended periods of use.

This combination of lightweight design and robust protection makes the HEROS H10 a standout product in the market.

Compatibility with previous models

An advantage of the HEROS H10 is its compatibility with the interior fittings of its predecessor models.

Components from the HEROS 30 and HEROS Titan can be reused with the new helmet.

Additional features, such as a central helmet lamp or a position light on the back, can be easily attached, enhancing operational efficiency.

The helmet also features easy adjustability without the need for tools, simplifying operational hygiene.

The user-friendly design facilitates quick adjustments, ensuring that firefighters can adapt the helmet to their needs without complications.

This compatibility and ease of use make the HEROS H10 a practical choice for emergency services.

Wide size range and sophisticated design

The HEROS H10 offers a generous size range, accommodating head circumferences from 48 to 67 cm with just one helmet shell.

Its sophisticated design emphasizes the characteristic features of the HEROS system, ensuring that the helmet is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

The extensive size range and thoughtful design make the HEROS H10 adaptable for a wide range of users.

Rosenbauer delivers electric fire trucks to Paris-Orly and Charles de Gaulle

Groupe ADP receives two electric fire trucks

Rosenbauer has delivered two fire trucks from its “Revolutionary Technology” (RT) series to Groupe ADP for use at Paris-Orly and Paris-Charles de Gaulle airports.

This marks the first time an airport operator has ordered this innovative vehicle.

As reported by Rosenbauer, the RT’s electric drive enables it to quickly and safely reach operational areas within the airport grounds, conducting most operations purely electrically.

This results in no local CO2 emissions and significantly reduced fuel costs.

The RT can also be equipped with advanced firefighting technology such as roof monitors and foam proportioning systems, making it ideal for various airport scenarios, including building fires and rescue operations.

First vehicles operational for Olympic Games

Groupe ADP’s acquisition aligns with its 2025 Pioneers roadmap, which aims for zero net emissions on the ground by 2030 for Paris-Orly and 2035 for Paris-Charles de Gaulle.

The first RT vehicle was accepted in early April and is set to become operational at Paris-Orly Airport following successful firefighter training.

The second vehicle was transferred to Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport in May.

Both vehicles will be available in time for the Olympic Games in July.

Sebastian Wolf, CEO of Rosenbauer International AG, expressed satisfaction with the order: “We are very pleased with this order from Groupe ADP, as it is the first from an airport operator.

“With its electric drive and innovative vehicle architecture, the RT not only contributes to reducing CO2 emissions but also sets new standards in digitalization and health protection for emergency personnel.”

About the “Revolutionary Technology” fire truck

The RT fire truck was first presented to the public in September 2020, following a three-year development phase based on insights from the Concept Fire Truck study.

Since its market launch, 43 units have been delivered worldwide.

The RT is highly adaptable to specific requirements and conditions.

It features a sophisticated system architecture, including an integrated driver and crew cabin, low entry and operation levels, and multiple energy sources, making it particularly resilient in crises.

Key technical data for the RT includes an advanced driveline with two high-voltage batteries and permanent electric all-wheel drive, a width of 2.35 meters, rear axle steering, and a cabin for six people, including four seats with breathing apparatus.

It is also equipped with an NH35 pump, a Variomatic 48 foam pressure proportioning system, a 2,000-litre water tank, a 200-litre foam tank, outlets at the front and rear, an RM 15C roof monitor, an 18 kW power supply unit, and country-specific adjustments and mounting for two Rosenbauer One Person Reels.

German Armed Forces awards Rosenbauer long-term contract for airport firefighting vehicles

Rosenbauer’s significant agreement with the German Armed Forces

Rosenbauer Deutschland GmbH, part of the Rosenbauer Group, has received a substantial order from the Procurement Office of the German Armed Forces.

As reported by Rosenbauer, the framework agreement includes the delivery of up to 60 airport firefighting vehicles over the next twenty years.

This initiative will completely replace the current fleet within this performance category.

The agreement outlines the delivery of 35 PANTHER 8×8 vehicles by 2029, with the initial batch expected by 2026.

These vehicles feature a 12,500-litre water tank and a High Reach Extendable Turret (HRET), enhancing their efficiency and capability.

The vehicles will serve defensive fire protection needs at German airports and during international deployments.

The PANTHER’s role in Rosenbauer’s success

Sebastian Wolf, CEO of Rosenbauer International AG, highlighted the historical significance of the PANTHER model, stating: “When we launched the PANTHER in 1991, we redefined the product category of airport firefighting vehicles.

“Like no other product, it embodies performance, safety, and reliability.

“Since then, over 2,000 such vehicles have left our factories in Austria and the USA.”

Wolf expressed satisfaction with the contract: “I am pleased that the PANTHER’s concept convinced the German Armed Forces in the bidding process and that we were able to succeed with our offer.

“This framework agreement with the German Armed Forces is the largest we have ever concluded.”

Importance of airport fire protection for German Armed Forces

The German Armed Forces rely heavily on the operational capacity of airports both domestically and internationally.

In Germany, airports play a crucial role in national defence.

Additionally, tactical air transport is essential for overseas missions.

Ensuring defensive fire protection at these airports is therefore vital for their operation.

The newly ordered PANTHER vehicles will significantly enhance the fire protection capabilities at these strategic locations, aligning with the German Armed Forces’ operational requirements.

Rosenbauer introduces the HEROS H10 helmet for global firefighting

New helmet designed for forest and wildland firefighting

Rosenbauer has announced the launch of the HEROS H10 helmet, designed to complement the existing HEROS Titan and HEROS H30 models.

As reported by Rosenbauer, the HEROS H10 is specifically tailored for forest and wildland firefighting, as well as technical rescue operations.

The helmet meets five European standards, making it suitable for high-altitude and water rescue missions.

Additionally, it is certified to the Australian standard, highlighting its global applicability.

A key feature of the HEROS H10 is its compatibility with other HEROS family helmets, including interchangeable interior fittings, which enhances cleaning, hygiene, and parts availability.

Production details and capacity

The first prototypes of the HEROS H10 were successfully manufactured in May 2024.

Series production is set to begin in July 2024 at Rosenbauer’s Pichling plant near Linz, Austria.

This facility, known for its high-quality firefighting equipment, will produce up to 130,000 custom helmets annually in a single-shift operation.

The plant’s workforce includes highly skilled personnel with extensive experience in helmet production.

The on-site quality department maintains rigorous standards, ensuring the safety and reliability of each helmet.

Advanced IT support, including a 3D configurator in the Rosenbauer Online Shop, allows for customer-specific adjustments, while RFID technology ensures precision and efficiency in the production process.

Sustainable practices and local partnerships

Rosenbauer demonstrates a commitment to sustainability in its production practices.

Most suppliers are located near the Pichling plant, reducing transportation time and CO2 emissions.

The company uses high-temperature resistant yet recyclable polyamide thermoplastics instead of problematic duroplastics, reflecting an environmentally responsible approach to manufacturing.

Global impact of the HEROS H10

The combination of advanced technology, production efficiency, and Austrian craftsmanship positions the HEROS H10 as a premier firefighting helmet.

Rosenbauer expects the helmet to positively impact the safety and comfort of emergency response teams worldwide.

Berlin fire department enhances fleet with Rosenbauer electric firefighting vehicles

Berlin fire department deploys electric fire trucks

As reported by Rosenbauer, the Berlin Fire Department is deploying five additional electric firefighting vehicles from Rosenbauer into regular service.

This move follows a successful test phase of a pre-series vehicle, making it the largest fleet of electric firefighting vehicles in the world.

The newly developed vehicles can operate nearly all missions in fully electric mode.

They offer enhanced safety and ergonomics for the crew, climate protection, and effective functionality through their sophisticated design.

The Berlin Fire Department initially tested a fully electric fire truck in daily operations in 2020, which led to over 90% of operations being completed in fully electric mode during the 13-month test phase.

Advanced technology and sustainability

The RT vehicles are built on a Rosenbauer chassis with all-wheel drive, independent suspension, and pneumatic suspension.

They feature adjustable ground clearance for various operational needs.

The vehicles are powered by two electric motors with a combined continuous output of 260 kW and supported by high-voltage batteries with a total capacity of 132 kWh.

The vehicles can be charged with direct and alternating current, allowing for quick replenishment of energy used in operations.

The RT’s design includes a low centre of gravity for stability, an electric mirror replacement system, and a 360-degree bird-view camera system to assist in manoeuvring.

Customised firefighting equipment

The firefighting equipment on the RT was implemented according to the Berlin Fire Department’s specifications.

It includes an N25 normal pressure integrated pump, a 1,200-liter water tank, a 100-liter foam compound tank, and various pressure outlets.

The crew compartment is fully integrated with the driver’s cab, featuring advanced control systems and rotating seats for improved interaction.

The vehicles also include modern LED technology for warning devices and lighting, providing excellent illumination with minimal power consumption.

Two remotely controlled searchlights on the roof enhance visibility during operations, and an integrated power supply unit allows external devices to be operated from the RT.

Enhancing operational capabilities

By introducing these five new electrically powered fire trucks, the Berlin Fire Department reinforces its pioneering role in innovative and sustainable firefighting technology.

The successful test results and comprehensive equipment of the RT demonstrate that these vehicles exceed the high demands of daily firefighting requirements.

New firefighting technology: Rosenbauer releases new RTE FX 750 hollow jet nozzle for high flow rates

Introduction of RTE FX 750 nozzle completes high-end series

Rosenbauer has introduced the RTE FX 750, a new hollow jet nozzle designed for high flow rates, complementing the previously released RTE FX 400/475 and RTE FX 230/235 products.

This completes the high-end RTE FX series, offering nozzles with flow rates ranging from 40 to 750 litres per minute, suitable for various firefighting scenarios.

These nozzles are consistently operable, optimized for long throw distances, and built to withstand extreme conditions due to their robust construction and materials.

Ideal for exterior attacks

The RTE FX 750 is the nozzle for medium to large fires, with a maximum flow rate of 750 litres per minute, approaching the performance of portable monitors.

It achieves the longest throw distances in the RTE FX series, ranging from 39 to 50 metres.

This allows firefighting to be carried out from a safe distance.

The RTE FX 750 is also perfect for preventing fire spread and establishing fire barriers.

A slide valve ensures an excellent spray pattern in any situation.

The adjustable flow rate (360 to 750 litres per minute) allows flexible responses to changing firefighting challenges.

Each Rosenbauer RTE FX nozzle is available in versions compliant with EN 15182 and NFPA 1964 standards.

All-rounder for all types of operations

The RTE FX 400/475 is the all-rounder in the Rosenbauer nozzle range.

It excels in both interior and exterior attacks, with flow rates of 130 to 400 litres per minute (EN) and 115 to 475 litres per minute (NFPA), making every operation manageable.

The innovative Fast-Attack design aligns the control surfaces for flow and spray pattern automatically in the starting position for interior attacks, intuitively understood by the nozzle operator.

The haptic perception of cubic design allows proper handling even in zero-visibility conditions, reducing training requirements and preventing operational errors.

In this Fast-Attack position, the medium spray pattern is preset, offering an ideal balance of throw distance and spray width for interior attacks, optimal for smoke cooling.

Tailored for interior attacks

The RTE FX 230/235 is the optimal tool for interior attacks.

It is lightweight, handy, maintenance-free, and easy to operate.

It can produce an extremely wide spray to protect advancing attack teams from intense heat, while the full jet ensures maximum accuracy over longer distances.

The spray head on all nozzles in the RTE FX family is robustly designed with a fixed gear rim and a built-in spring that can be used to break windows.

A protector also absorbs any energy applied to the ergonomically designed handle, which is optimized for use with gloves.

The clutch valve can be rotated and is available in all common variants.

Only high-quality materials such as anodised aluminium and stainless steel are used in the construction of the RTE FX jet pipes.

The uncompromising technology, with slide valve and innovative Fast-Attack design, ensures safe, efficient, and effective firefighting.

Ordering and availability

The new RTE FX 750 nozzle can be ordered immediately through the Rosenbauer online store, with deliveries starting at the end of June.

All other nozzles from the proven SELECT FLOW series, as well as the high-pressure NEPIRO and special PRO JET nozzles, remain available.

Rosenbauer Karlsruhe inaugurates state-of-the-art “Welcome Center”

“We have created a modern infrastructure”: Michael Kristeller on the new Rosenbauer “Welcome Center”

After two and a half years of construction, the new “Welcome Center” of Rosenbauer Karlsruhe was officially opened on June 11, 2024, as reported by Rosenbauer.

The facility, which includes a delivery hall and administration building, was built with an investment of 1.2 million euros.

The ten-metre-high hall is designed for vehicle handovers, training, and courses on up to four lanes simultaneously, regardless of weather conditions.

The “Welcome Center” also features a state-of-the-art training center and office spaces based on “new work” concepts.

This development follows previous investments in a digitalized production plant for aerial rescue devices and an innovative paint shop, totalling millions of euros over the past few years.

Commitment to Karlsruhe

Sebastian Wolf, CEO of Rosenbauer International, highlighted the strategic importance of Karlsruhe for the company: “With a share of around 14% of Group revenues, high-quality aerial rescue vehicles are a strategically important segment for our company. Demand is high.

“In Germany only, we were able to win orders for exactly 100 new vehicles in 2023.”

Wolf added that this investment further enhances Karlsruhe as a competence center for aerial rescue vehicles and signifies the company’s commitment to the location’s hundred-year history.

Michael Kristeller, Managing Director of Rosenbauer Karlsruhe, stated: “As the world market leader, we stand for products and vehicles of the highest quality and state-of-the-art technology.

“With the new ‘Welcome Center’, we have created a modern infrastructure that fulfills this customer promise in vehicle handovers, training, and courses and elevating them to a new level.”

Modern infrastructure for enhanced training

The new ten-metre-high delivery hall allows for the demonstration of multiple vehicles simultaneously, irrespective of the weather.

Kristeller explained: “Here we can show what our vehicles can do in a suitable environment – in dry conditions, at pleasant temperatures and on up to four lanes at the same time.”

The “Welcome Center” consolidates all customer-facing departments, including Development and Design, Purchasing, Sales, Sales Support, Helpdesk, Service Center, and a modern training center with three training rooms that can be combined if necessary.

Promoting communication through “new work” concepts

The “Welcome Center” was constructed on the site of the old administration building at Carl-Metz-Strasse 9.

The new office spaces, located atop the delivery hall, were designed following “new work” concepts to promote communication and ensure a pleasant working atmosphere.

Michael Kristeller emphasized the importance of the new office environment: “We need the best employees to develop and build the best aerial rescue vehicles.

“And we have also created the best working conditions for them.”

The facilities include work cafés, communication islands, a roof garden, and a picnic area.

Sustainable energy use

The “Welcome Center” building was designed with sustainability in mind, featuring a robust, energy-saving construction.

Heating is provided by a district heating connection, and a significant portion of the electricity requirement is met by a 71 kWP photovoltaic system on the roof, eliminating the need for fossil fuels in ongoing operations.

High-tech production at Karlsruhe

Since Rosenbauer’s acquisition of Metz in 1998, the Karlsruhe site has focused on high-tech aerial rescue devices.

The site has set benchmarks with its fully automatic hydraulic turntable ladders and aerial rescue platforms, which have a rescue height of up to 64 meters.

Rosenbauer employs around 500 highly trained staff at the site, producing approximately 200 new high-tech turntable ladders and aerial rescue platforms annually for global distribution.

Rosenbauer set to release new lightweight fire helmet, the HEROS H10, later this year

Introduction of the HEROS H10 to enhance fire safety gear

Rosenbauer is preparing to enhance its fire safety equipment line with the upcoming release of the HEROS H10 helmet in fall 2024.

The new model focuses on providing essential protection against both flames and mechanical impacts while minimising the weight to alleviate strain on firefighters during extended wear.

Development and design insights of the HEROS H10

The HEROS H10 was meticulously designed to comply with multiple safety standards, achieved through extensive design and prototyping stages, including 3D printing to refine its features and ensure its adaptability.

“Our rigorous testing and prototyping have been instrumental in developing a helmet that meets the diverse needs of fire safety and rescue operations while providing unprecedented comfort,” stated a Rosenbauer representative.

Transition to production and unique features of the HEROS H10

Currently in the pre-series production phase, the HEROS H10 employs advanced materials and manufacturing techniques such as injection molding to produce the helmet shells.

The helmet is notable for its lightweight, under 500 grams, and versatility, certified for various uses including forest firefighting, mountain rescue, and industrial safety, making it suitable for a broad range of emergency scenarios.

IFSJ Comment

The forthcoming launch of the HEROS H10 helmet represents a strategic enhancement to Rosenbauer’s safety equipment offering, anticipating the needs of fire and rescue personnel who require reliable protection without the burden of heavy gear.

This innovation in helmet design is indicative of Rosenbauer’s commitment to advancing safety technology, aligning with industry standards and expanding the functionality of protective gear used in challenging environments.

The introduction of the HEROS H10 is expected to set a new benchmark in the design and functionality of fire safety helmets.