CFA’s Fleet Engineering team has recently completed the finishing touches to the new ultralight tanker.
The first vehicle off the production line was delivered to the State Logistics Centre to undergo final working group review, tilt testing and quality assessment.
“Through discussions with our volunteer, operational and district mechanical officer representatives we have taken the opportunity to refresh some of the design features of this vehicle.” CFA’s Engineering Project Manager Simon Tesfamariam said. “There were a lot of great suggestions which we have incorporated into the new ultralight.”
The vehicle is now built on the new ANCAP five-rated, four-wheel drive next generation Ford Ranger. It comes with all the modern driver enhancements and safety features you would expect in a new vehicle, plus a 10-speed automatic transmission. CFA members only need a car licence to drive it.
“The main body features have remained the same, however there are several new enhancements,” Simon said. It comes with a 500 litres/minute diesel powered pump, 550-litre water tank, class A foam system, permanently connected suction hose, and live hosereel fitted with 30 metres of lightweight 19mm hose.
“We have been able to include electric rewind for the live reel, making it easier to restow. The stowage list has also undergone a refresh as well as improved lighting.”
The lockers, which now have hinge-up doors, have been redesigned to give more room for personal gear as well as helmets.
A crew protection system including cabin curtains and foam deluge system will also be fitted when the design is finalised and validation testing has been completed.
Fifty vehicles are now in production with delivery expected to be phased over the next six to eight months.
“It is a credit to everyone involved. We have received a lot of positive feedback from those who have had the opportunity to look at it,” CFA’s Head of Fleet & PE Danny Jones said.
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