The Cambridge Fire Department made history by becoming the first in New England to put an electric fire truck, the HazMat1, into service. Built by renowned manufacturer Rosenbauer, this innovative vehicle represents a significant step towards modernizing emergency response.

Fire trucks and engines are highly specialized vehicles that carry essential emergency equipment and must perform reliably in diverse environments. Each fire department has specific needs that require customized modifications, and the high demand for reliability often limits the adoption of new technologies, including electric vehicles.

The International eMV, on which HazMat1 is based, features a 33,000-pound GVWR, a direct-drive motor with 1,737 pound-feet of peak torque, and a range of 135 miles provided by a 210 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. The vehicle also includes a powerful auxiliary system powered by AGM 12V batteries, charged from the main 609V high-voltage system.

The HazMat1 has officially replaced the department’s 25-year-old diesel-powered rescue vehicle, marking a significant upgrade in both performance and sustainability.