DENTON, TX – The Denton Fire Department has made history by introducing Texas’ first fully electric fire engine, marking a significant step toward sustainability and firefighter safety. The new Pierce Volterra fire truck, stationed at Denton Fire Station 1, is designed to reduce emissions and minimize exposure to harmful diesel exhaust.
A Game-Changer for Firefighting
The Volterra fire engine operates primarily on a 246-kWh battery, allowing it to drive and pump water at emergency scenes with zero emissions. However, it also features a backup diesel engine, ensuring reliability in critical situations. The dual-system design means firefighters can seamlessly switch between electric and diesel power if needed.
Fire Chief Kenneth Hedges emphasized the health benefits of the new truck, stating that reducing exposure to carcinogenic diesel exhaust is a priority for the department. “Cancer reduction has been a very big push in the fire service. This is just one more step we’re taking to protect our employees,” Hedges said.
Cost and Efficiency
The city of Denton invested $1.8 million in the electric fire engine, approximately $600,000 more than a traditional diesel-powered truck. The additional cost was offset by Denton’s sustainability fund, which supports environmentally friendly initiatives.
The battery can fully charge in just 90 minutes, minimizing downtime between calls. The truck’s quiet operation also enhances efficiency, allowing firefighters to communicate more effectively at emergency scenes.
Community and Industry Impact
The push-in ceremony at Station 1 celebrated the arrival of the new fire engine, with firefighters and community members participating in the tradition of pushing the truck into its bay. The station, nicknamed the “Powerhouse”, sits on the site of Denton’s first diesel plant, built in 1935.
Denton’s move toward electric firefighting technology is part of a broader trend. Dallas Fire-Rescue is set to deploy its own Volterra fire engine in July, following Denton’s lead. Other cities, including Madison, WI, Portland, OR, and Gilbert, AZ, have already integrated similar electric fire trucks into their fleets.
As Texas’ first city to embrace electric fire engines, Denton is setting a precedent for sustainable emergency response. The department will continue testing the truck’s battery life and performance, ensuring it meets the demands of modern firefighting.