Rosenbauer’s electric fire truck looks like it just landed

The Panther 6×6 Electric can handle more than 90% of daily tasks purely on electric power, but it is also equipped with a diesel generator for emergencies

words heard electric car and fire The same sentence might inadvertently set off some alarm bells, but in the case of the Rosenbauer Panther 6×6 Electric, that reaction couldn’t be further from the truth. Designed specifically for airport operations, the new firefighting truck from Austria features an all-electric powertrain that not only aims to outperform its diesel counterparts but also achieve zero local emissions.

Classified as an ARFF (aircraft rescue and firefighting vehicle), the Panther Electric is the electric sibling of the diesel-powered Panther 6×6 and is a direct evolution of the 2022 concept car. Visually, the differences are subtle but significant: the EV model comes with a unique set of LEDs that are said to improve visibility in low-light conditions.

Familiar firefighting tools

Despite the electric powertrain, the Panther’s firefighting credentials remain unchanged. It is equipped with the same powerful fire suppression system as its internal combustion engine (ICE) counterparts, including pumps, foam proportioning system and turret. Its water tank holds up to 12,000 liters (3,170 gallons) of water, 1,450 liters (383 gallons) of foam and 250 kilograms (551 pounds) of powder. Literally, this should be enough to deal with high-risk fires on the runway.

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However, the real revolution lies beneath. The Panther 6×6 Electric features four electric motors with a total output of 980 horsepower, which jumps to an astonishing 1,200 horsepower when boost mode is engaged. According to Rosenbauer, the 0-80 km/h (0-50 mph) sprint can be accomplished in 19.7 seconds, putting the diesel-powered Panther 6×6 in the dust.

Of course, it’s tempting to compare to a road car, but it’s not fair. Sure, Dacia springs can beat it, but that’s not the point. That’s impressive acceleration for a vehicle that weighs 80,000-85,000 pounds (40-42.5 tons) when loaded. At full throttle, the vehicle can reach a top speed of 75 mph (120 km/h).

The battery pack has a capacity of 256 kilowatt-hours and is said to provide “enough energy to travel to the job site, discharge all fire extinguishing agents, and return as required in 2 to 3 minutes.”

During testing, the prototype was reportedly capable of “multiple trips” on a single charge, although the company avoided promising specific range figures. Given the Panther’s narrow purpose – short bursts of high-intensity activity rather than long-distance cruising – this omission is understandable, although it does leave room for doubt.

More: LAFD takes delivery of North America’s first electric fire truck

The Panther supports 300 kW fast charging and can charge from zero to 100% in 45 minutes. According to the company, more than 90% of Panther’s daily tasks can be completed purely on electricity. The remaining 10% are equipped with “Energy Backup System” diesel generators to ensure continuous use of high-performance pumps in emergencies.

The Rosenbauer Panther 6×6 Electric is available to order now, but pricing has yet to be revealed. The first trial production units are expected to be delivered by the end of 2025. Electric vehicles like this play a vital role in helping the aviation industry and airport operators achieve their decarbonization goals.