ZIEGLER Group has received an order to supply the world’s first hybrid aircraft rescue and firefighting (ARFF) vehicle to Cranfield Airport in Bedfordshire, UK.
This order comes just 3 months after ZIEGLER announced the electrification of its Z-Class in June 2022.
ZIEGLER’s Z6 HYBRIDDrive is a 6×6 ARFF which can drive in three modes: purely electric; combined electric and combustion; and purely with a conventional, low-emission engine.
This flexibility can significantly reduce airfield emissions, while also enabling maximum power output in an emergency. Its power output can reach up to 1,150 HP, with acceleration from 0–80 kilometres per hour within 25 seconds.
“It’s the perfect concept for future airport firefighting: Combination of both – green airports concept and maximum power for the rapid deployment.”
Cranfield Airport’s new Z-Class HYBRIDdrive will be manufactured in Giengen/Brenz in Germnay before being shipped to Venari in West Yorkshire for finalisation work. This will include stowage fitment, communications instalments and livery.
“Cranfield Airport is used to ground-breaking projects in areas such as our Digital Air Traffic Control Centre, the integration of manned and unmanned aircraft and enabling the future of electric and hydrogen flight. This contract represents another milestone on our support to the zero carbon aviation agenda.”
