Dallas Airport unveils hybrid fire vehicle to boost response times and cut emissions

Credit: Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)

Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) has introduced its first hybrid Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) vehicle, placing it among the first airports in the United States to adopt this advanced technology.

Details on Dallas Airport’s first hybrid Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting vehicle

The Striker Volterra, a six-wheeled vehicle built specifically for aircraft firefighting, features hybrid drive capabilities that allow it to reach 50 mph in under 21 seconds, a 40% improvement over the diesel model. In electric mode, it produces zero emissions during station entry and standby, lowering fuel use, noise and firefighters’ exposure to exhaust fumes.

“Enhancing performance by reducing response times is the key driver of transitioning to these new vehicles,” said Daniel White, Chief of DFW Fire-Rescue. “The Striker Volterra vehicles are faster and more agile than our current fleet. Because they are also safer for our firefighters and better for the environment, this investment represents a rare win-win-win, delivering operational benefits while ensuring the safety of our responders and the community we serve.”

The shift also supports DFW’s transition to fluorine-free firefighting foam, part of an industry-wide effort to eliminate PFAS-based chemicals. Five more Volterra units are expected by late summer, making DFW the largest user of the model in the country.

The airport is also upgrading its ARFF stations with 480-volt power to support hybrid vehicle charging and future needs. DFW Fire-Rescue is responsible for the safety of nearly 90 million passengers each year and is recognised globally for its advanced fire response capabilities.

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