Oshkosh Airport Products, a subsidiary of Oshkosh Corporation, has introduced six Striker Volterra 6x6 Electric Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) vehicles into service at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW).
This achievement marks DFW as a pioneering airport in the U.S. to implement electric drive ARFF technology, aligning with its goal to enhance high-performance and sustainable operations.
Green Initiatives and Fleet Upgrade
The new Electric ARFF vehicles were supplied through Siddons-Martin Emergency Group, signifying a significant stride in DFW's agenda to overhaul its current fleet with modern, electrified vehicles.
By the end of 2025, DFW intends to operate the most extensive Striker Volterra Electric ARFF fleet in the country.
Enhancing Operational Efficiency
"Enhancing performance by reducing response times is the key driver of transitioning to these new vehicles," remarked Daniel White, Chief of DFW Fire-Rescue. He emphasized that the Striker Volterra units are not only faster and more agile but also ensure the safety of firefighters and are environmentally friendly.
This new investment offers multiple advantages, increasing operational efficiency while safeguarding the safety of both responders and the airport community.
Advanced Features of Striker Volterra
The Striker Volterra Electric 6x6 ARFF vehicles feature Oshkosh's innovative electric powertrain combined with an electro-mechanical infinitely variable transmission. This enables zero-emission operations during station entry, standby, and low-speed activities, thereby minimizing exposure to diesel exhaust for firefighters.
In scenarios demanding full power, the system leverages both the battery and internal combustion engine, ensuring optimal acceleration and seamless pump performance without needing extra operator actions.
- Accelerates from 0–50 mph in under 21 seconds, a 28% improvement over traditional diesel models when fully loaded.
- TAK-4 all-wheel independent suspension for superior control and comfort.
- Equipped with a 3,000-gallon water tank and a 420-gallon foam tank.
- Features a 2,000 gpm water pump and a 500 lb. dry chemical powder system.
- Includes an electronic foam proportioning system with the Oshkosh ECO-EFP foam testing system.
Transition to Eco-Friendly Firefighting Solutions
The introduction of these vehicles aids DFW in shifting to fluorine-free firefighting foam
The introduction of these vehicles aids DFW in shifting to fluorine-free firefighting foam, in step with FAA recommendations and the broader industry trend away from PFAS-based agents. This move ensures DFW's ARFF fleet maintains a consistent and eco-friendly response capability throughout the airport.
"Our commitment goes far beyond delivering a vehicle," stated Travis Ownby, a Sales Specialist with Siddons-Martin Emergency Group, adding "It's about helping departments like DFW Fire-Rescue lead the way in operational excellence and sustainability. We're proud to support their mission with the Striker Volterra Electric ARFF vehicles."
Infrastructure Developments for Future Integration
To enable the integration of electric vehicles over the long term, DFW has enhanced its ARFF stations with 480-volt charging infrastructure to accommodate evolving power requirements. Each Striker Volterra Electric ARFF vehicle is fitted with onboard chargers. The airport's newly improved infrastructure ensures its readiness for future advancements.
DFW Fire-Rescue, tasked with safeguarding nearly 90 million passengers annually, is internationally renowned for its leadership in aircraft fire response, firefighter training, and airport emergency preparedness.
