Calgary fire department looks to test first electric fire truck in Canada

The City of Calgary's fire department may soon be in line for testing the first electric fire truck in Canada.

An American manufacturer, Pierce, wants to try out their electric fire trucks on the job in different markets and climates, according to Calgary's Fire Chief Steve Dongworth.

"They wanted one in a cold climate so they came to Calgary," Dongworth said.

The fire truck can run on batteries for 24 hours. However, it can use a diesel motor if the batteries run out or another call prevents firefighters from returning it back to the station for a 90-minute recharge.

Dongworth said he's interested in electric vehicles as an e-truck could both lower emissions and save on fuel costs.

"We're constantly looking at what's the best technology," he said.

According to the fire chief, negotiations are underway with Pierce to bring an electric fire truck to Calgary. To have been chosen as one of the few cities the e-truck will be tested in is a compliment, Dongworth said.

"We're seen as a progressive agency and we said, 'No problem. There's no charge to us so why wouldn't we try that?' We know we have to move to that kind of technology in the future, so [it's] very, very exciting."

The electric fire truck is already in service in two American cities.

Dongworth said it's possible it could be in front-line service in Calgary sometime next year.