Rosenbauer America - Experts & Thought Leaders

INTERSCHUTZ 2026, taking place from 1 to 6 June in Hanover, will be shaped by what many are calling a “turning point”. With eleven months to go before the event starts, strong exhibitor interest is already evident for the world’s pioneering trade fair for firefighting, rescue, and civil protection. Climate change and disasters “Nearly three-quarters of the nine exhibition halls are already booked, and only a few spaces remain available on the open-air-site,” says Bernd Heinold, Head of INTERSCHUTZ at Deutsche Messe AG. “It’s already clear that INTERSCHUTZ will further expand its role as the world’s pioneering industry platform.” Against a backdrop of increasing global challenges – ranging from climate change and natural disasters to geopolitical and security threats – exhibiting companies have recognized INTERSCHUTZ as an indispensable showcase for their products and services, as well as a key forum for industry guidance and exchange. Rescue services field Major players and organizations from all key sectors have confirmed their participation Major players and institutions from all key sectors have confirmed their participation. Pioneering companies in the firefighting segment include Empl, Magirus, Rosenbauer, Volkan, WISS, and Ziegler. The rescue services field is also strongly represented by Binz, Ferno, PAX, Spencer, and WAS. The civil protection segment, which will take on added importance in 2026 given the current global situation, includes exhibitors such as Dönges, Lanco, Mast Pumpen, Polyma, and Spechtenhauser. Smaller firms and startups “We’re also seeing interest from companies that have never exhibited at INTERSCHUTZ before. That’s something we’re especially pleased about,” adds Heinold. Smaller firms and startups will also showcase their solutions alongside the sector’s pioneering players. For the first time, the German “Bundeswehr” will have a significantly expanded presence at INTERSCHUTZ 2026. This reflects a new emphasis on civil-military cooperation (CMC) – a strategic partnership between civil organizations (both governmental and non-governmental) and the military in alliance and national defense, disaster response, and emergency management. Investing in Civil Protection According to Heinold, showcasing products and solutions to an expert audience is essential “The current turning point has undoubtedly led to heightened awareness of critical challenges – but also to clear financial commitments,” says Heinold. “In the coming years, we’ll see significant federal investment in civil protection, including major upgrades in equipment for fire and rescue services.” According to Heinold, showcasing products and solutions to an expert audience is essential. “INTERSCHUTZ provides a unique opportunity to bring together users and manufacturers – both commercial and non-profit – to address future challenges in line with our theme: ‘Safeguarding tomorrow.’” Focus on climate-related emergencies: WildfireCamp There is a broad consensus that climate change is advancing rapidly – and INTERSCHUTZ 2026 will directly respond to one of its most visible consequences: the increase in wildfires and vegetation fires around the world. The new WildfireCamp@INTERSCHUTZ will bring together experts from Germany and abroad to present and discuss innovative approaches to fighting and preventing vegetation fires. “We aim to connect developers, solution providers, and frontline responders,” says Heinold. “At WildfireCamp@INTERSCHUTZ, exhibitors will gain firsthand insight into the real-world challenges responders face – and vice versa, emergency personnel will experience the latest technologies and tools from the industry.”

Rosenbauer America, a pioneer in fire apparatus innovation and performance, announces the initial delivery of new state-of-the-art Tractor Drawn Aerials (TDAs) to the Los Angeles County Fire Department (L.A.Co. FD). In addition, the Los Angeles County Fire will also soon be receiving new Rosenbauer America Engines/Custom Pumpers. Rosenbauer COMMANDER™ cab In total, this order includes: Eleven (11) Tractor Drawn Aerial (TDA) Quints: Built on the Rosenbauer COMMANDER™ custom cab and chassis, these units feature Rosenbauer’s heavy-duty extruded aluminum EXT body, 2000 GPM Waterous pumps, 300-gallon water tanks, and the technologically advanced 100-foot Rosenbauer SMART aerial ladder. The SMART system offers enhanced safety features, operational efficiencies, and precise controls for aerial operations. Eight (8) Engines (aka Custom Pumpers): These rigs are built on the Rosenbauer WARRIOR™ custom cab and chassis with the rugged and durable Rosenbauer extruded aluminum EXT bodies. They are equipped with 1500 GPM Hale pumps, 350 GPM Darley HM350 auxiliary pumps, 500-gallon water tanks, and 30-gallon foam concentrate pumps. The auxiliary pumps enable wildland firefighting capabilities. fire protection and emergency medical services Fire protection and emergency medical favors across a vast and diverse region covering 2,300 square miles Established in 1923, the Los Angeles County Fire Department is one of the largest and busiest fire departments in the United States.  It provides vital fire protection and emergency medical services across a vast and diverse region covering over 2,300 square miles, encompassing 59 cities and all unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County, plus the City of La Habra in Orange County.  With nearly 5,000 personnel operating out of 177 fire stations, the department protects the lives and property of over 4.1 million residents, responding to more than 400,000 calls for service annually. Integrated SMART aerial system Conducted March 10-13, 2025, at the L.A. County Fire Department Headquarters, the intensive familiarization program utilized the first two Rosenbauer America TDAs delivered under the department's contract. The training brought together over 100 L.A.Co. FD personnel, including approximately 75 firefighters and 30 mechanics. The training was specifically designed to build the department's proficiency in operating the Rosenbauer TDA, with a particular focus on the capabilities and safety features of the integrated SMART aerial system. SMART aerial technology Velocity Fire Equipment has worked closely with LA County and will provide on-going security, service, and parts "The delivery of these initial TDAs and the completion of this comprehensive familiarization training represent a significant milestone for this important project," said Ernie Young, Western Regional Sales Manager for Rosenbauer America. He adds, "Seeing the L.A. County Fire Department personnel quickly adapt to and gain confidence with our SMART aerial technology was incredibly rewarding." From the contract onset, Rosenbauer America’s authorized dealer, Velocity Fire Equipment, has worked closely with LA County and will provide on-going warranty, service, and parts support to Los Angeles County. Collaboration with the Los Angeles County Fire Department "Our partnership and ongoing collaboration with the Los Angeles County Fire Department are something we deeply value," said Tim Noeding, General Manager at Velocity Fire Equipment Sales. He adds, "Working together on this significant order, as well as previous apparatus procurements, allows us to help equip their dedicated personnel with the reliable, high-performance Rosenbauer apparatus they need to serve their vast community effectively."

Rosenbauer America, a renowned manufacturer of fire apparatus and firefighting equipment, is pleased to announce the expansion of C.W. Williams and Company's authorized dealer territory to include the US state of South Carolina, effective June 1, 2025. This expansion builds upon C.W. Williams’ successful representation of Rosenbauer in North Carolina since 2006. C.W. Williams currently operates three service and office locations in North Carolina: Rocky Mount, Statesville, and Pisgah Forest. Known for their dedication to customer service, C.W. Williams also provides extensive mobile service capabilities in North Carolina and South Carolina. Expanding in-house service capabilities C.W. Williams is committed to expanding in-house service capabilities in South Carolina As part of their territory expansion, C.W. Williams is committed to expanding in-house service capabilities in South Carolina to further support fire departments across the state. "We are incredibly excited to extend our partnership with C.W. Williams in South Carolina," said Diego Salazar, Rosenbauer Director of Dealer Development, adding "The C.W. Williams team has consistently demonstrated an unparalleled commitment to their customers and to the Rosenbauer brand over the past two decades." He continues, "Their proven track record in North Carolina, combined with their commitment to a new service facility in South Carolina, gives us immense confidence in their ability to serve the firefighting community throughout the expanded territory." Words from Vice President of C.W. Williams "Our team at C.W. Williams is thrilled to bring the full line of Rosenbauer fire apparatus and support to the state of South Carolina," said David Eatmon, Vice President of C.W. Williams, adding, "We look forward to building strong relationships with fire departments across South Carolina and providing them with the same high level of fire apparatus sales, service, and parts support that we’ve proudly delivered in North Carolina." He continues, "This expansion allows us to offer a full complement of apparatus alongside our existing equipment, parts, and service – all backed by our ongoing mission of ‘Putting first responders first, in our products, services, and operations'."

The adoption of electric fire apparatus is accelerating their footprint in the industry. Fire departments from Los Angeles to Madison, Wis., from Portland, Ore., to Mesa, Ariz., have embraced the technology of electric and hybrid vehicles in the fire industry and are demonstrating the practical capabilities of this new generation of technology for the fire service. Sustainable commitment More municipalities worldwide are committing to sustainability and climate goals. Furthermore, truck producers in general are converting to electric drive systems. In the future, there will be fewer chassis available with conventional drivelines, making it necessary for fire trucks to go electric. Electric fire apparatus An electric fire engine is an innovative tool that will help reduce noise and harmful diesel emissions Electric fire apparatus made a big splash at recent trade shows, notably FDIC International in the United States and INTERSCHUTZ in Germany. An electric fire engine is an innovative tool that will help reduce noise and harmful diesel emissions and provide a flexible tool for firefighting and rescue operations from a technologically advanced platform. At INTERSCHUTZ, Rosenbauer presented a complete range of electric emergency vehicles, from municipal fire trucks including fully electric aerial ladders to Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) vehicles. fully electric fire truck A fully electric fire truck currently going into service in Los Angeles is the result of 10 years of research and development, with the Los Angeles City Fire Department working closely with Rosenbauer America to address the challenges and obstacles of deploying the truck within the city’s system. Two more Rosenbauer electric trucks are being demonstrated in fire departments in the U.S. and Canada, and another truck is coming next year. Rosenbauer projects that half of all vehicles they deliver to fire departments should be electrified by 2030. Addressing the issues with an electric truck Training and operations must be considered when replacing a traditional apparatus with a new electric truck Issues such as training and operations must be considered when replacing a traditional apparatus with a new electric truck. One change is more space available on the electric truck for equipment storage, says Rosenbauer. The City of Madison, Wis., Fire Department is deploying an Enforcer Volterra Pumper from Pierce Manufacturing Inc. The apparatus uses an “electro-mechanical infinitely variable transmission” that can switch imperceptibly between the electric and diesel modes. Fine-tuning the design The Volterra pumper will work on the front lines at Station 8, the city’s busiest fire station. Madison Fire Department worked with Pierce to “fine-tune” the design. The department seeks to have their electric trucks “mimic” the operation of the older trucks. In Madison, the city’s fleet manager is driving a push toward electrification throughout the vehicles used by the city; the Pierce apparatus enables the fire department to deliver on that expectation. The city anticipates buying two or three additional electric fire trucks in the next year or so. E-One Vector fire truck Additional features include a battery storage solution that offers a safer, lower center of gravity and regenerative braking EV Fire Group announced the all-electric E-One Vector fire truck last August and debuted it in multiple presentations on the FDIC International show floor in April 2022. The customizable Vector features a long electric pumping duration that allows four hose lines to be used for four hours on a single charge. Additional features include a battery storage solution that offers a safer, lower center of gravity and regenerative braking. cost-savings and efficiency Mesa, Ariz., is the first city to order the Vector, with delivery expected this year. The rig supports the City of Mesa’s Climate Action Plan, to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. They expect the new rig will demonstrate potential cost-savings and efficiency of electric vehicles throughout city operations. In developing Vector, REV Fire Group worked closely with customers to identify their needs and fine-tune the product based on feedback. Volterra platform Oshkosh provides a Volterra platform for a hybrid ARFF vehicle, which is debuting at airports Pierce Manufacturing and Oshkosh Airport combined efforts to introduce the Volterra platform of vehicles for the fire and emergency market. Oshkosh provides a Volterra platform for a hybrid Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) vehicle, which is debuting at airports across the United States. Innovative fire suppression technology The hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) meets the emergency response needs among airports. The first Striker ARFF deployment is at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. Available on 4x4 and 6x6 chassis platforms, the Striker Volterra delivers superior chassis performance, advanced safety systems, innovative fire suppression technology, reliability, and durability.

Firefighters are flocking to Indianapolis for FDIC International. Much of the week-long event is dedicated to classroom instruction and hands-on training. Connecting and networking In addition to learning, firefighters are connecting and networking on a scale unprecedented since the pandemic. There is also a spirit of gratitude to first responders for keeping communities safe. For the first time, FDIC International is co-locating with the JEMS Conference and Expo for the EMS market. Equipment manufacturers emphasize new technology in a large exhibit hall at FDIC International, where firefighters can see and touch the latest products, from protective clothing to hand-held devices to large fire apparatus. The event even spills into the outdoors, where displays comprise large aerial equipment and activities include skill competitions. Interact directly with firefighters It’s a unique trade show that enables end-user engagement with 30,000 firefighters" Exhibitors embrace the opportunity to interface directly with firefighters. “It’s a unique trade show that enables end-user engagement with 30,000 firefighters,” said Jason Traynor, MSA Safety’s General Manager of Global Fire Service Products.” “They can meet with us directly, get a sense of who MSA is, how we operate, the kind of people we employ. Coming to the show is about that connection with the people who have to do the work and have committed themselves to a selfless career.” G1 SCBA and LUNAR “It’s about the time we get to spend with the people, and introducing new technologies is also important." The MCA Safety exhibit emphasizes the company’s focus on human-centered design and products that work together in a connected firefighter platform. They include the G1 SCBA (self-contained breathing apparatus) and the LUNAR-connected handheld device, which complements the SCBA with search-and-rescue and thermal imaging capabilities. The two are connected and can send data back and forth. If either goes into alarm, LUNAR becomes a beacon that can help firefighters locate a partner based on the signal strength of the beacon. In effect, the combination provides objective data to aid decision-making in an emergency. Fotokite tethered drone, software MCA is highlighting the Fotokite tethered drone, which hovers above a fire scene and provides situational awareness MCA is also highlighting the Fotokite tethered drone, which hovers above a fire scene and provides situational awareness (with visual or thermal imaging) and connectivity to understand the fire scene better. MCA’s software helps departments monitor people, processes, and products for a deeper understanding of the work they do. The broader ecosystem enables them to view firefighting more holistically. Gas Laser National Gas Leak Detector The FDIC show is the first since the pandemic to occur at its regularly scheduled time. One exhibitor estimates attendance is about triple what he saw at the show last August, almost back to 100% of the pre-pandemic level. In addition to firefighter attendees, who were willing to brave the threat of COVID, many distributors and sales reps are returning to the show. Teletype Gas Measurement Instruments had two orders pending just one hour after the exhibition opened, said Alan Skinner, Regional Manager. Teledyne’s Gas Laser Natural Gas Leak Detector is a handheld device that can quickly scan common venting points from a safe distance. AttackPRO handheld thermal imaging camera Several exhibitors at the show mention the usefulness of feedback from users and show attendees in guiding product design. Seek Thermal employed information about real problems in the field when designing its AttackPRO handheld thermal imaging camera, introduced at the show. The simple, durable product is easy to control; there are only two buttons, so no confusion in an emergency. Situational awareness A smaller camera provides situational awareness, while the new product is more for decision-making The AttackPRO complements Seek Thermal’s smaller and familiar RevealFirePROX camera, an affordable personal thermal imaging camera for everyone in a department. The smaller camera provides situational awareness, while the new product is more for decision-making and is a “fire attack tool,” said Brent LaSala, Director, Global Marketing at Seek Thermal. Comfortable clothing Clothing for firefighters makes up a big part of the show floor, and the trend is toward more comfortable clothing with a better range of motion. 5.11 Tactical is approaching the challenge with flexible fabrics, including a poly-cotton blend, and adjusted fit. The trend extends to the company’s lighter-weight jackets, outerwear, and duty uniforms, which seek to combine an “old-school” aesthetic with better comfort, said Aaron Shick, Sr. Manager, Strategic Accounts and Channels, 5.11 Tactical. fully electric fire truck Resulting from 10 years of research and development, the electric apparatus is a reinvention of the fire truck Rosenbauer America showed off a fully electric fire truck, which will go into service next month at the Los Angeles City Fire Department. Resulting from 10 years of research and development, the electric apparatus is a reinvention of the fire truck from the ground up. Rosenbauer worked closely with the Los Angeles Department to address the specific challenges and obstacles of how the new truck fits into the city’s needs. Revolutionary Technology electric truck The Rosenbauer RTX (Revolutionary Technology) electric truck can travel 60 miles before it needs a charge and can operate 30 to 90 minutes at a fire scene before needing a charge; the average fire call is about 25 minutes. If the battery depletes to 20%, a diesel generator kicks in and can power the truck for several hours for an extreme fire. The truck is also 8,000 pounds lighter than a conventional apparatus. The 13kW Volvo Penta drivetrain is powerful, reliable, and noise- and emissions-free. Training and operating procedures “Anything that a traditional apparatus needs to do, this truck does, and more,” said Mark Fusco, VP of Sales & Marketing, Rosenbauer America. In Berlin, Germany, a similar truck has been operating for several months in an initial trial. It ran 440 calls and only needed to engage its generator to recharge two times. “In deploying this truck, departments will need to consider various factors such as training and operating procedures,” says Fusco. NFPA-approved truck “You can fit more loose equipment on this truck because there is more usable space. This is an NFPA-approved truck, and it is exceeding expectations.” Two more Rosenbauer electric trucks are being demonstrated in fire departments in the U.S. and Canada, and another truck is coming next year.

Local governments in the U.S. are embracing electric and hybrid vehicles in a big way, and many states have implemented incentives to promote adoption of the futuristic technologies. However, fire department vehicles and apparatus are yet to embrace the transition, largely because vehicles were not available that both meet the needs of firefighters and provide environmental advantages. However, fire vehicle technology is farther along the electric and hybrid path than some people realize. Electric and hybrid vehicles for the fire service are making their way into the market and may be deployed soon in a neighborhood near you. Zero-Emissions pumper Oshkosh Corp., which includes Pierce Manufacturing, has introduced the Volterra platform of electric vehicles for the fire and emergency market. The first Pierce Volterra zero-emissions pumper has been placed in service with the Madison, Wis., Fire Department, making it the first electric fire truck in service in North America. The Volterra pumper is serving front-line duty at Station 8, the City of Madison’s busiest fire station. The department is made up of 14 fire stations serving 100 square miles and a population of more than 250,000. The Volterra electric vehicle configuration weighs 42,000 lbs., seats six, has a 1500 GPM single-stage pump, 500-gallon water tank, 150 cu ft of compartmentation plus ladder storage, and a hose capacity of 1000 feet of 5-in hose. Pierce Manufacturing and Oshkosh Airport Products have introduced the Volterra™ platform of electric vehicles for the fire and emergency market Infinitely variable transmission An Oshkosh parallel-electric drivetrain with an electro-mechanical infinitely variable transmission allows zero-emissions operation when powered by onboard batteries. An internal combustion engine provides uninterrupted power to the pumping system or drive system. The first Striker ARFF will be delivered to the Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport Fire Department Oshkosh also provides a Volterra platform for a hybrid Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) vehicle, which is debuting at airports across the United States. The hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) meets the growing emergency response needs among airports of all sizes in an environmentally conscious way. Firefighters will be able to experience the technology first-hand. The first Striker ARFF will be delivered to the Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) Fire Department in late summer 2021. Advanced safety systems Available on a 4x4 and 6x6 chassis platforms, the Striker Volterra performance hybrid delivers superior chassis performance, advanced safety systems, innovative fire suppression technology, reliability and durability. In April, Rosenbauer America’s Revolutionary Technology (RT) concept truck made its national debut in Washington, D.C., displayed for members of the Senate and firefighters based on the district. The viewing was held as Congress considers an infrastructure and jobs plan. “The Rosenbauer RT is the fire truck of the future,” says John Slawson, CEO and President of Rosenbauer America. “Build from the ground up using advanced materials and technologies, the RT is the safest fire truck on the roads today – for firefighters, for communities and for the environment.” The fully electric apparatus features a high level of safety, excellent driving dynamics and maneuverability and is fully networked. Rosenbauer's Revolutionary Technology (RT) fully electric fire truck visits Engine 3 in Washington, D.C. Auxiliary equipment chargers The RT’s electric drive is powerful and noise emission-free. The electric drive train ensures that almost no fuel is combusted while driving. Lighting and auxiliary equipment chargers are also powered by the batteries. A local power grid can be created with up to 14 kW operated simultaneously via the power outlet. A built-in range extender (REX) comprises a small diesel engine powering a large generator Conceived as a multi-purpose vehicle, the RT is a pumper first and foremost, a connected mobile command unit, and a vehicle for assistance in wildland fires. A built-in range extender (REX) comprises a small diesel engine powering a large generator. Volvo Penta developed the electric driveline for Rosenbauer’s RT fire truck, which is also being tested in fire departments in Berlin, Amsterdam and Dubai. Pioneering electric drivelines “After many years of successful collaboration with Rosenbauer, we are proud to be pioneering electric drivelines and partnering with them on this revolutionary project,” says Paul Jansson, Chief Product Manager at Volvo Penta. “This is our first industrial OEM partnership in the area of electromobility, and it’s a big step toward creating a new product platform of the future.” The new fire truck aims to respond to global megatrends such as climate change, shifting demographics and urbanization – and their impact on the work of fire departments.  Firefighters responding to a call need a vehicle capable of high speed, rapid acceleration hard braking and maneuverability.