The primary purpose of the dual-cab fire truck is to conduct rescue operations in narrow streets and tunnels. In such scenarios, the dual-cab design allows the vehicle to maneuver freely in and out, significantly improving rescue efficiency.
This fire truck’s unusual appearance has attracted numerous onlookers. It features 2 Mercedes-Benz Actros MP3 cabs, one at each end. Many people may find it hard to distinguish which is the front and which is the rear.
The two cabs are configured differently. The Ziegler dual-cab fire truck comes equipped with a single-row cab and a double-row cab. Technically, the vehicle does have a front and rear: The engine is installed under the double-row cab, making it the actual “front,” while the single-row cab serves as the rear. Both cabs are fully functional with driving controls such as the steering wheel, accelerator, and brake, meaning either side can be used for forward driving.
Strictly speaking, the vehicle is equipped with a reverse gear. It uses a standard transmission system that includes both forward and reverse gears. However, directional switching is likely achieved through modifications to the transfer case, which enables seamless changeover between forward and reverse driving modes.
In terms of the powertrain, the Ziegler dual-cab fire truck is powered by the previous-generation Mercedes-Benz OM501LA engine, delivering a maximum output of 320 horsepower. For a 4×4 fire truck weighing under 20 tons, this power output is generally sufficient. Additionally, the vehicle lacks heavy upper-body equipment, so it doesn’t require a high-horsepower engine for propulsion.
The chassis features a 4×4 full-time all-wheel drive system, with power distributed via a centrally located transfer case. Both the front and rear axles are steerable, enabling independent steering. The vehicle has only one engine, located under the double-row cab; no powertrain components are installed beneath the single-row cab.
Both axles are fitted with Mercedes planetary hub reduction axles, and as mentioned earlier, both axles support steering. The wheels follow a distinctly European style, utilizing 22.5-inch multi-hole flat-rim steel wheels commonly seen on European trucks, paired with Bridgestone 385/65R22.5 wide tires.
In terms of hardware configuration, this Ziegler dual-cab fire truck is geared more toward rescue missions rather than heavy-duty firefighting. Winches are mounted at the front of both cabs, each capable of pulling up to 5.4 tons. On either side of the winches are towing hooks, each rated for a maximum pulling force of up to 10 tons.
Next to the winches are fixed firefighting monitors manufactured by Ziegler. These monitors operate at a pressure of 1.0 MPa with a flow rate of 25 liters per second. Due to their compact size and limited range, they are not intended for suppressing large-scale fires. Instead, they are designed to clear small fires directly in the vehicle’s path—both ahead and to the sides—to ensure the truck can safely and swiftly pass through tight rescue corridors.
The bumpers are made entirely of steel and are well-equipped. In addition to combination headlights, they also include auxiliary lights. Since the truck is capable of bi-directional driving, both the front and rear bumpers are fitted with a pair of taillights. As shown in the images, these taillights are protected by steel bars.
Feature
Specification / Description
Side Compartments
Equipment compartments on both sides of the central body
Equipment Layout
More comprehensive than standard mainline fire trucks
Vehicle Type
Ziegler dual-cab fire truck
Water Tank Capacity
2,000 liters
Foam Tank Capacity
1,000 liters
Firefighting Turrets
Small monitors on both ends; no additional turrets installed
Intended Use
Specialized applications
Frontline Firefighting Capability
Not designed for frontline operations
A stamped metal guard covering the vehicle’s emissions treatment system features the Ziegler logo.
Due to the limited space on the bumper, the license plate has been relocated to 1 side.
