Emergency One, a manufacturer of specialist fire and rescue service appliances, has developed the world’s first electric fire engine in Cumnock, Scotland.
Launched during a virtual event in October, the E1 EV0 zero-emission emergency vehicle uses battery power for both its engine and water hose pump.
The project and awarded a £500,000 R&D grant by Scottish Enterprise in 2019 as a contribution towards the Emergency One’s £1.7m R&D investment in the new EV. According to the company, it now plans to sell the vehicle to international markets.
Scotland’s cabinet secretary for transport, infrastructure and connectivity, Michael Matheson, said: “It’s great to see Emergency One innovating to bring a cutting edge zero-emission fire appliance to the market, manufactured here in Scotland.”
The Scottish Fire and Ambulance Service also welcomed the development as it seeks to drive down carbon emissions and better protect staff.
Kenneth Blake, sustainability manager at the Scottish Fire and Ambulance Service, said: “Firefighters provide a mobile response to the impacts of climate change, such as flooding and wild-fires.
“And as a national service we are also looking at the best ways to adapt to a low carbon future for the benefit of our staff, communities and the environment. Over the next decade, we have pledged to reduce our carbon emissions by 6% each year.”
