The country’s first fully electric fire truck was unveiled this morning at Christchurch Airport, as well as plans to expand the electric response vehicle fleet in 2026.
The Rosenbauer RT (Revolutionary Technology) model was 100% electric, and has a small back up range extender generator that can top up batteries if required in prolonged emergency situations.
The vehicle would become the airport’s primary first-response vehicle, replacing the existing diesel truck that handled most emergency call outs across the airport campus.
Christchurch Airport fire chief Peter Moore told Breakfast the new vehicle would enhance emergency response capability, and there were many features the firefighters were excited about.
“Not having a combustion engine creates a lot of space. So we have a lot of space for the crew, [and more] safety features. It’s a near silent operation. And the guys are really excited about it,” he said.
Moore said this truck was “the future of firefighting”.
“There’s no engine screaming and roaring its head off, the guys can communicate to each other a lot better, there’s no diesel emissions that they’re breathing in when they’re operating in an emergency situation.”
The airport’s corporate fleet was already 100% electric, and was moving toward a fully electric fleet of emergency response vehicles as part of its commitment to a zero-emission fleet by 2035.
Christchurch Airport chief executive Justin Watson said the airport was partnering with the same manufacturer to acquire a second, larger e-Panther electric fire truck in 2026.
“Safety is at the heart of everything we do, and this new truck ensures our emergency response teams have cutting-edge equipment to keep the airport community safe. At the same time, this is another step towards our zero-emissions goal,” he said.
Senior firefighter Trevor Casey said operating the new truck was an “amazing experience”.
“It’s incredibly smooth, responsive, and packed with smart features that help us do our jobs better. The training has been excellent, it’s going to take our response times and capability to the next level,” he said.