The new Volvo FM Crew cab has been launched with emergency services personnel front of mind.
According to Volvo Group Australia, the needs and safety of Australian firefighters have been prioritised through feedback collected from the field by the commercial vehicle manufacturer in creating what it considers as being the safest, most comfortable and effective vehicle for those tasked with protecting the community during times of crisis.
In conjunction with Rosenbauer Australia, this new vehicle has been specially designed and equipped, front to back, under the ethos that safer emergency vehicles mean a safer environment for all road users.
A key focus during the development of the Volvo FM Crew Cab was to create a cab that made a firefighter’s job easier while also supporting the health and wellbeing of their teams in the challenging conditions they often face.
The result, per Volvo Trucks, is a more human centric approach to emergency vehicle design.
Available with both 11- and 13-litre engine options with the option of Euro 5 and Euro 6 emissions ratings, the Volvo FM Crew cab offers a 6-speed Powertronic torque converter automatic transmission and class leading 12-speed I-Shift AMT with the added option of crawler gears.
The wellbeing of firefighters took precedence according to Gary Bone, Vice President, Volvo Trucks Australia, so that the vehicle was imbued with better operational logic and information was easily accessible.
“We looked at improving the cabin with features like greater access with the egress-fold down step, wide door openings, and enhanced grab rails,” he said.
“Firefighters were also front of mind when we designed the cabin interior, ensuring that the interior is safely lit whilst also preserving low light vision,” said Bone, who confirmed Volvo intended to build the vehicles at its Wacol facility in Brisbane.
“I am proud that our products are able to play a role toward improving the safety and wellbeing of emergency services personnel now, and into the future.”
He added, “With over 40 years in the Australian market, Volvo’s innovative trucks are a combination of global vision and local intelligence.”
The partnership between Volvo Trucks and firefighting equipment specialist Rosenbauer Australia, is based on a commitment of keeping people safe both on and off the road according to Arthur Wiemer, Managing Director, Rosenbauer Australia.
“Drawing on global expertise to provide an optimised local solution for Australian firefighters shows that we have both the agility and ability to target the specific requirements of emergency services personnel,” Wiemer said.
“We look forward to continuing to work with Volvo Trucks with the aim of building these appliances here in Brisbane.”
The Rosenbauer equipped, Volvo FM Crew Cab, will have its first public showcase at the 2021 AFAC exhibition, 17th-20th August.
