As cities around the world look to reduce their carbon footprint and transition to cleaner energy, electric vehicles (EVs) are rapidly gaining traction, not just in the consumer sector but also in emergency services. One of the most exciting developments in this area is the emergence of electric fire trucks. These cutting-edge vehicles offer numerous benefits, from reduced emissions to quieter operations. However, one of the most frequently asked questions about electric fire trucks is: “How long does it take to charge an electric fire truck?”
The answer to this question is multi-faceted and depends on several variables, including battery size, charging infrastructure, and usage patterns. In this article, we’ll explore all the factors that influence the charging time of electric fire trucks and what it means for their operational readiness.
Understanding Electric Fire Truck Batteries
To comprehend charging times, it’s crucial first to understand the batteries that power electric fire trucks. These vehicles are significantly larger and more powerful than passenger EVs, so they require much more substantial battery packs.
For example, the Rosenbauer RT (Revolutionary Technology) electric fire truck, which has been deployed in several cities in Europe and North America, comes with a battery capacity of 100 kWh to 132 kWh. In comparison, a Tesla Model S has a battery capacity of around 100 kWh. The larger the battery, the longer it typically takes to charge—unless a high-powered charger is used.
Some electric fire trucks are also designed with range extenders—auxiliary diesel or gas engines that can provide additional power or charging capability. However, the trend is moving toward fully electric models with robust fast-charging systems.
Charging Options: Levels and Infrastructure
Electric vehicles—including fire trucks—can be charged using different types of chargers:
- Level 1 Charging (120V AC):
This is the slowest charging method and is rarely used for commercial or emergency vehicles. Charging a large battery, such as that of an electric fire truck, with Level 1 could take several days, making it impractical. - Level 2 Charging (240V AC):
More suitable for passenger EVs and light-duty commercial vehicles. While Level 2 chargers are faster than Level 1, they are still too slow for fire trucks unless used for overnight charging. A 240V Level 2 charger at 30-40 amps could take 10–20 hours to fully charge a fire truck, depending on the battery size. - DC Fast Charging (480V or higher):
This is the most practical option for electric fire trucks. DC fast chargers can deliver 150 kW to over 350 kW, significantly reducing charge times. At 150 kW, a 100 kWh battery could be charged to 80% in around 40 to 50 minutes.
Typical Charging Time Scenarios
Let’s look at some real-world examples to better understand the expected charging times for electric fire trucks.
Rosenbauer RT Example
- Battery Size: 132 kWh
- Charger Type: 150 kW DC fast charger
- Charge Time (0 to 80%): ~45 minutes
- Charge Time (0 to 100%): ~1.5 hours
The Rosenbauer RT is built with modular charging in mind. With infrastructure in place, a fire station can ensure that the truck is topped off in between calls or charged overnight for full readiness the next day.
Volterra Zero Emission Fire Truck (REV Fire Group)
- Battery Size: 327 kWh
- Charger Type: Up to 350 kW DC fast charger
- Charge Time (0 to 100%): ~3 to 4 hours with a 150 kW charger; faster with a higher-capacity charger
The REV Fire Group’s electric truck also includes features for in-station charging and may incorporate regenerative braking and other energy-saving technologies.
Operational Readiness and Charging Strategies
Charging time is a critical consideration for fire departments, which must ensure their vehicles are ready to deploy at a moment’s notice. Here’s how departments are managing this challenge:
- Opportunity Charging:
Fire trucks are not constantly in motion. Many emergency calls are short, allowing for top-up charges between incidents. Charging during these downtimes ensures readiness. - Scheduled Charging:
For shifts and daily operations, charging schedules can be aligned with predictable station routines, like overnight parking or maintenance periods. - Redundant Power Systems:
Some electric fire trucks are equipped with onboard range extenders or hybrid systems that kick in if battery levels drop too low, maintaining operational capacity. - Fast-Charging Infrastructure at Stations:
Modern fire stations are being retrofitted with DC fast chargers. Some cities also install backup battery banks or solar panels to supplement the grid and provide emergency charging.
Future Innovations
Battery and charging technologies are advancing rapidly. Upcoming innovations that could reduce charging times further include:
- Solid-State Batteries:
Promising faster charging and higher energy density, solid-state batteries could drastically cut charging times in the next decade. - Wireless Charging Pads:
These allow for passive, continuous charging whenever the truck is parked in its bay—ideal for emergency vehicles. - Megawatt Charging Systems (MCS):
Designed for heavy-duty electric trucks and buses, MCS could reduce full charge times to under 30 minutes for large vehicles.
Challenges and Considerations
Despite the benefits, there are still challenges that municipalities and fire departments must address:
- High Initial Infrastructure Cost:
Installing high-capacity DC fast chargers and upgrading electrical systems can be costly. - Grid Dependence:
A reliance on the local electrical grid means that backup systems (like generators or battery storage) are essential for emergency preparedness. - Battery Degradation:
Frequent fast charging can reduce battery life over time, necessitating careful thermal and charge management systems.
Conclusion
The charging time for an electric fire truck varies depending on battery size, charger capacity, and operational use. With modern DC fast charging systems, most electric fire trucks can reach 80% charge in under an hour and be fully charged in 1–4 hours. This timeline is well within acceptable limits for urban and suburban fire departments, especially when combined with strategic charging protocols and infrastructure investments.
As technology continues to evolve, charging times will become even shorter, making electric fire trucks not only environmentally friendly but also highly practical for 24/7 emergency readiness. In the meantime, departments investing in electric fire trucks must ensure they adopt the right mix of infrastructure, operational strategy, and backup systems to meet the demands of their critical missions.
