Fire trucks equipped with zero-emission APUs enable firefighters to reduce idling, cut CO₂ emissions and improve safety without specialized charging infrastructure

[Holland, MI – August 3, 2021] — Dependable Emergency Vehicles and Volta Power Systems collaborated to develop fire trucks with zero-emission auxiliary power units (APUs) that cut idling time and the need for on-scene generators. The power systems are part of a 16-vehicle, multi-year contract for Toronto Fire Services (TFS) to assist the organization in reducing CO₂ emissions, helping them meet anti-idling goals, and improving safety by reducing noise at emergency scenes. Dependable completed the first truck featuring the new APU for TFS in November of 2020.

Powered by Volta’s technology, Dependable’s Idle Reduction & Energy Storage System (IRESS) provides each fire truck with a scalable energy storage pack and customized distribution system. The system provides all the power necessary for warning and scene lights, air conditioning, body lights, tank circulation, communication electronics, and other loads for several hours without idling or using an auxiliary generator. IRESS does not require the installation of specialized charging infrastructure, simplifying the integration process for fire departments.

“This technology enables municipal and commercial fleets to not only reduce CO₂ emissions but also benefit from the reduced costs of fuel and maintenance,” said Massimo Natale, Technical Team Coordinator of Dependable. “We have designed IRESS to provide clean and consistent power that can be customized for all the various loads and capabilities our customers require.”

The Nickel-Manganese Cobalt (NMC) lithium-ion technology in Volta’s system offers twice the energy density of Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePo) systems on the market without compromising safety or performance. The packs provide consistent power while reducing emissions, fuel usage, maintenance costs, and the storage space necessary for the packs. Based on a baseline of four APU system run hours per day, each vehicle could save up to $15,002 ($11,833 USD) annually in maintenance and fuel costs. Each will also eliminate up to 19,569 lbs in CO₂ emissions each year.

“We pride ourselves on safety, both in how our products perform and the environments they create for our users,” said Jack Johnson, co-founder and CTO of Volta Power Systems. “Dependable’s integration of our systems means that Toronto firefighters can provide their lifesaving services in a safer environment, uninhibited by idling engines or noisy, fuming generators.”

The Volta-powered system will last the full-service life of the fire trucks, with the potential to easily retrofit other existing or new vehicles, regardless of chassis or size.

About Volta Power Systems

Founded in 2014, Volta Power Systems provides safe, powerful and simple lithium-ion energy storage solutions for small to midsize businesses. RV, marine and specialty vehicle OEMs trust Volta to deliver advanced, automotive-grade power systems that enhance the lifestyle, freedom and comfort of their end-users. For more information, visit https://voltapowersystems.com/.

About Dependable Emergency Vehicles

Dependable Emergency Vehicles is a leading Canadian manufacturer of custom emergency vehicles, driven by a personal commitment to quality and innovation. With over 40 years of experience, Dependable and its

By Bill Adkins

Your department has decided to purchase a ladder truck for the rural community you protect and serve. With so many options out there, you must determine what best suits your community. First, I want to be clear that I’m not for or against any manufacturers. In my personal opinion, apparatus manufacturers are like Ford vs. Chevy vs. Dodge—to each their own. What I’m referring to is do you want a Tower ladder or quint, mid- or rear-mount? The apparatus committee must look at the dynamics of its area and surrounding areas to make a determination on what piece of apparatus will work best. This article will be based off of my own experience and knowledge of the majority of the rural communities I have encountered.

Tower Ladder or Quint?

If you live in or near rural communities, you know that some roads and/or driveways can be quite narrow, winding, overgrown with vegetation, and otherwise inconvenient for larger vehicles. Think of your typical driveway in rural communities. There is a mailbox, electric pole, or tree in close proximity; turning into a driveway with a tower ladder can be done but will most likely be challenging. With this in mind, I must lean toward a quint in most rural areas.

Tower ladders will have a bucket either on the rear or in front (depending on rear- or mid-mount) that tends to swing wide and if you have a tight area the operator will have a harder time making their approach. Consider using ground guides when in tight areas. One major advantage the tower ladder has over the quint would be that your firefighters are not required to climb the ladder. If you have firefighters that are not fond of heights, then maybe this is the route to take.

Quints are smaller and for the most part have a better turning radius. A quint with a short wheelbase makes turning into these tight driveways easier. Most quints will have the same wheelbase as the typical engine. Without the bucket there is less hanging off the front or back to worry about.