Christchurch Airport unveils electric fire truck

Christchurch Airport has launched New Zealand’s first electric fire truck, replacing the existing diesel truck that handles most emergency call outs across the airport campus.

The Rosenbauer RT (Revolutionary Technology) will operate as the primary first-response vehicle and is also the first electric fire truck at any airport in the Southern Hemisphere.

The Austrian manufactured truck is part of the airport’s fleet transition programme which will see all its emergency response vehicles zero-emission by 2035.

While the RT is a 100% EV, it has a small back up range extender generator that can top up the batteries in exceptional circumstances, ensuring continuous operations even in prolonged emergency situations.

The airport has also signed a further deal with Rosenbauer to take delivery of a second, larger e-Panther electric fire truck in 2026. The e-Panther offers increased levels of performance and capability.

Christchurch Airport chief executive Justin Watson says the addition of the Rosenbauer RT reflects the airport’s ongoing investment in safety and sustainability.

“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.

“By investing in world-class emergency response technology, we’re ensuring our airport remains at the forefront of both safety and environmental leadership,” Watson says.

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