Colorado City Buys First Electric Fire Engine

Colorado's Boulder Fire-Rescue has purchased a Rosenbauer RTX fire engine representing a broader movement to go electric with larger vehicles. According to the city, this will be the first electric vehicle of its kind in Colorado.

“This is a tremendous step forward for our community and yet another example of Boulder’s leadership in addressing climate change,” said City Manager Nuria Rivera-Vandermyde. “We’re proud to be an early adopter of new technology that makes emergency response both safer and environmentally friendly. The collaboration among departments – fire-rescue, fleet & facilities, and climate initiatives – has been exceptional and is an example of how we can address today’s challenges when we work together.”

📣📣📣@boulder_fire has purchased a @RosenbauerGroup RTX 🚒 With an all-electric drivetrain and pump and a diesel energy backup system, it'll be the first of its kind in Colorado. 🤯

For the full press release: https://t.co/bMXMJBCByU#boulder #boulderfirerescue @rosenbauerus pic.twitter.com/sJTQnqTkju

— Boulder Fire-Rescue (@boulder_fire) April 24, 2023

Features and Improvements

The RTX, a Range Extended Electric Vehicle (REEV), has an all-electric drivetrain and pump with a diesel energy backup system. Improvements include an adjustable suspension that offers lower equipment and cab access heights, all-wheel drive and all-wheel steering for increased maneuverability on the road, an ergonomically designed cab space, reduced exposure to carcinogenic fumes, and a reduction in operational noise.

Boulder anticipates delivery of this engine late 2024 to early 2025, though the actual timeline may vary slightly, and will be determined as the build-out progresses. The estimated cost of this engine is currently at $1.78 million. The money has been saved up over time from the department’s budget to replace the fleet as necessary. Nearly all of Boulder Fire-Rescue’s budget is from the feneral fund, made possible through sales and use tax collections.

“I care deeply about the safety and well-being of our firefighters, and I’m excited about the next steps we are taking to better support them, while also helping achieve several city goals,” said Boulder Fire-Rescue Chief Michael Calderazzo. “This option is a win-win.”