First-of-its-kind fire truck debuts: Unmatched performance and dependability

A New Era in Emergency Response: Cary Introduces First Electric Fire Truck on the East Coast

Cary, North Carolina, has taken a significant step forward in sustainable emergency response by introducing the first electric fire truck on the East Coast. The Cary Fire Department recently put the Pierce Volterra electric pumper into service after successful testing with crews. This innovative vehicle represents a major shift toward greener and more efficient firefighting operations.

The Volterra is equipped with a 500-gallon water tank, a 155-kilowatt-hour battery pack, and a backup diesel engine. This combination allows firefighters to handle most daily emergencies using only electric power, while the diesel engine ensures they can manage high-intensity calls without interruption. This means a reduction in tailpipe emissions and lower fuel costs for the department.

"Reliability is non-negotiable when it comes to public safety," said Fire Chief Mike Cooper in a press release. "That's why we chose the Pierce Volterra EV. It delivers the performance and dependability we require while supporting Cary's broader goals around sustainability and resiliency."

Cary has been actively working to reduce pollution through various initiatives. One such effort involves using Pierce's Idle Reduction Technology across its fleet, which powers critical functions without running the engine. The new electric pumper adds another layer to these efforts. "More than 90% of our calls will now be powered by electric response," said Chief Cooper.

Electric and hybrid vehicles are playing an increasingly important role in the green energy transition. For everyday drivers, switching to an electric vehicle (EV) can lead to significant savings on fuel and maintenance, as there’s no need for oil changes. Additionally, EVs help reduce toxic air pollution and provide a quieter driving experience.

While the production of EV batteries does have its own environmental impact, studies show that traditional gas-powered engines produce nearly double the pollution over their lifetimes compared to EVs running on today's power grid. According to MIT Climate, this makes EVs a more sustainable choice in the long run.

The electric pumper has already proven its effectiveness in real-world scenarios. "The batteries were at about 87% when they responded to the call," Chief Cooper shared with North Carolina Public Radio about a recent fire. "They pulled three lines and flowed water for just over three hours, and it only reduced the batteries to about 42%."

This groundbreaking vehicle not only supports Cary’s commitment to sustainability but also sets a precedent for other cities looking to modernize their emergency response systems. As more communities embrace electric technology, the benefits of cleaner air, lower costs, and improved efficiency become increasingly evident.

If you're interested in learning more about how your city is addressing air quality issues, consider taking a quick poll. Your input can help raise awareness and drive positive change.

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