Released 23/08/2023
The ACT Government continues to lead in the transition to sustainable vehicles, unveiling Australia’s first zero emissions truck at the Australasian Fire and Authorities (AFAC) exhibition and conference in Brisbane. The ACT Emergency Services Agency (ESA) welcomed the new fully electric breathing apparatus truck, with another six vehicles to join the ACT Emergency Services fleet over the coming years.
Minister for Police and Emergency Services Mick Gentleman says the arrival of this vehicle is a milestone towards a sustainable future, for both emergency services and the ACT.
“Having fully electric, zero-emission vehicles mean that our frontline responders can continue to protect our community, but through a more sustainable fleet,” said Minister Gentleman.
“The delivery of this vehicle, and another six vehicles with Volvo Group Australia is a crucial step to achieving our governments nation-leading target of net zero emissions by 2045,” finished Minister Gentleman.
ACTF&R Chief Officer Matthew Mavity says the innovative vehicle will also provide long-term financial benefits to the ESA.
“Replacing one diesel fire truck with one electric one will save our agency $12,250 in fuel per year. It will also help us reduce emissions with an estimated reduction of up to 17 CO2 tons per year,” said Chief Officer Mavity.
“The electric breathing apparatus truck joining our service is a nimble vehicle designed for urban environments. The support vehicle will provide specialist breathing apparatus capabilities at varied incidents such as structure fires, hazardous materials (HAZMAT), chemical, biological and nuclear incidents.”
“This truck has also been designed with firefighter safety and comfort front of mind with improved ergonomics such as easy to access storage areas. The vehicle has also been built to allow firefighters to have less exposure to diesel particles, which will have long term health benefits for our crews.”
“I would like to thank Volvo Group Australia and the ESA project team, which included firefighters from ACTF&R, who together demonstrated leadership and innovation in the design and delivery of this word-class vehicle.”
“I am proud of us as an agency to be leading the way and playing our part in reducing emissions to help improve the livelihoods of the community that we serve. However, creating a liveable future for the nation is a task that we cannot take on alone and I hope that other emergency services across the country follow in our footsteps and play their part in helping reduce emissions nationally,” finished Chief Officer Mavity.
The Australian first electric breathing apparatus truck will undergo familiarisation and intensive training with ACTF&R firefighters to ensure a safe transition to servicing the Canberra community. The vehicle is currently expected to be operational within the ACT in early 2024.
- Statement ends -
Mick Gentleman, MLA | Media Releases