Pierce® Volterra® Electric Fire Truck Features
An integrated diesel engine provides backup power for extended incidents, ensuring continuous operation when additional energy is needed.
The Electro-Mechanical Infinitely Variable Transmission powers both propulsion and pumping, delivering seamless performance across all operations.
The high-capacity battery system supports zero-emissions response and full pumping capability during typical calls.
The electrically driven pump delivers full fireground performance with quiet, efficient operation.
A parallel-electric drivetrain enables smooth transitions between electric and diesel power with no interruption in performance.
The advanced system regulates battery temperature to maintain performance and reliability in extreme heat or extreme cold..jpg?width=800&height=220&name=PIE-26_Find-Dealer-CTA-1b%20(1).jpg)
Electric Fire Truck FAQs
The Pierce Volterra EV matches the performance of a traditional diesel apparatus while adding key operational advantages. It delivers the same response capability, pumping power and reliability expected on the fireground, with no compromise in safety or functionality.
There are several safety advantages which directly benefit firefighters, including a reduction in firefighter exposure to harmful emissions and lower noise levels compared to traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. You can learn more in the Electric Fire Truck Reference Guide.
EMIVT stands for Electro-Mechanical Infinitely Variable Transmission. It uses electric motors to propel the fire truck and power the pump, drawing energy from onboard batteries. The system is designed as a parallel-electric platform, so a diesel engine remains available to supply power when needed.
This setup allows the apparatus to operate on electric power during response and pumping, then seamlessly transitions to diesel for extended incidents or backup. The result is continuous, uninterrupted performance with flexibility across a wide range of emergency scenarios. Take a closer look at the EMIVT in this expert Q+A article.
Yes. The Pierce Volterra pumper can respond to incidents and operate the pump at full capacity using battery power alone, supporting zero-emissions operation during typical calls.
The electric fire truck is designed as a parallel-electric platform, which means the vehicle has two sources of power: electric power and an internal combustion engine (ICE). The ICE serves as a backup power source, ensuring the fire truck can continue to operate even if the battery’s charge depletes during critical moments. We break down the technology further in this expert blog post.
Charging time depends on battery level and station infrastructure. In many scenarios, the electric fire apparatus can reach a full charge in about one hour, with faster turnaround common during normal use since the battery is rarely fully depleted.
The Pierce Volterra fire truck is engineered to perform reliably in extreme cold temperatures. An advanced Thermal Management System continuously monitors and regulates battery temperature using a coolant loop and integrated heating system. This keeps the battery within an optimal range, supporting consistent performance and readiness even in freezing conditions. Read our blog to learn more: Electric Fire Trucks in Cold Weather: Facts, Challenges and Examples
Electrification Modes
Operating in Electric Mode
- Batteries used to power the EMIVT for all-electric, zero emission operation.
- Powered by energy from the grid, an efficient source of generated power.
- Simplified solution allows traditional vehicle accessories to be powered by the EMIVT.
Operating in ICE Mode
- ICE engagement is automated with seamless transition after batteries have been depleted.
- EMIVT allows for mechanical couple to the ground on ICE mode.
- EMIVT's parallel electric drive is more efficient than a range extender.
Batteries
- Batteries are located between the cab and pump house providing benefits to the overall vehicle packaging while also contributing to vehicle safety.
- No consumption of compartment space or limitation of body configuration.
- Battery center of gravity is below the apparatus' combined center of gravity for zero compromise on handling and performance.
- The battery is placed above frame rails providing a highly protected space which will not be influenced by road debris, side or rear vehicle collisions or approach and departure angles.
Charging Infrastructure
We've made installing your electric fire engine infrastructure simple. The planning phase of adding an electric apparatus to your fleet starts with a discussion of the future. Before you invest in infrastructure, you first need to consider the right investment, for now, five years from now and beyond. Understanding how an electric fire truck can fit in your station and the charging capacity calculations are all items Pierce and your dealer discuss in the initial planning stages.
Throughout the process, Pierce acts as the technical resource to help compliment your preferred power vendors, local utility or public works department. We’ll take the time to meet and align with your local experts to support your goals so you can focus on your daily work and not on the technical details of your new apparatus.
Pierce® Electric Fire Truck Innovation History
As an Oshkosh Corporation business, Pierce Manufacturing builds on more than 25 years of electrification experience across multiple industries.
From refuse collection and defense to airport rescue and fire apparatus, Oshkosh has developed advanced electric vehicle platforms designed to help reduce emissions, support lower total cost of ownership and maintain uncompromising performance.
Together, Oshkosh and Pierce Manufacturing are working to shape the future of fire apparatus and support a more sustainable future.
