Introduction of the Striker Volterra electric vehicles

Groupe ADP, renowned for its global leadership in airport development and management, has secured a significant contract for four Striker Volterra 6×6 electric aircraft rescue and fire fighting (ARFF) vehicles.

These cutting-edge vehicles will replace the entire fleet at Paris-Le Bourget Airport, located just eight kilometres northeast of Paris, France.

The environmentally advanced fire apparatus mark a notable advancement in airport safety and sustainability initiatives.

The electric vehicles chosen by Groupe ADP are celebrated not only for their safety features but also for their green capabilities.

They are designed to handle all daily operational tasks required at the airport efficiently.

Features include exceptional acceleration, a custom chassis and suspension, and a fully electric range, setting new standards for vehicle performance in emergency response scenarios.

Advanced features and design of the new fleet

Each of the four Striker Volterra electric ARFF vehicles boasts an industry-leading modular cab design and TAK-4 all-wheel independent suspension.

These vehicles are equipped with a 10,500-litre water tank, an 800-litre foam tank, a 7,570 LPM water pump, and a 250 kg dry chemical powder system.

They also feature the Oshkosh Eco EFP foam system, which minimizes environmental impact by eliminating ground foam during testing.

Sebastien Couturier, Paris-Le Bourget managing director, highlighted the strategic investment: “By investing in the cutting-edge Oshkosh Striker Volterra electric ARFF vehicles, Paris–Le Bourget Airport is setting a new standard for low-carbon operations.

“This initiative demonstrates our unwavering commitment to crew safety and environmental responsibility as we lead the way in the electrification of airport vehicles in Europe.

“We are excited about this partnership with Oshkosh Airport Products and look forward to a future where sustainable solutions pave the way for a cleaner and brighter aviation industry.”

Paris-Le Bourget Airport, the largest for business aviation and medical flights in Europe, is stepping up as a leader in renewable energy and sustainability.

This purchase signifies the first sale of electric ARFF trucks in Europe, establishing a new benchmark for low-carbon aviation operations.

Oshkosh’s commitment to sustainable aviation solutions

Jim Johnson, executive vice president of Oshkosh Corporation and president of Oshkosh Vocational, discussed the extensive efforts behind this achievement: “Our Oshkosh Europe sales and marketing team worked diligently to provide the extensive information and testing protocols needed to establish the trust and confidence of Groupe ADP in their purchasing decision.

“We are proud to offer a solution that exceeds international standards for performance and safety and supports the evolution of green aviation.

“We look forward to building a long-lasting relationship with Groupe ADP and customers worldwide as we collectively navigate the path towards more sustainable and innovative ARFF vehicle solutions.”

IFSJ Comment

The commitment of Groupe ADP and Oshkosh Airport Products to advancing sustainable aviation technology through the adoption of electric ARFF vehicles at Paris-Le Bourget Airport represents a forward-thinking approach to environmental stewardship and operational safety in the aviation sector.

As the industry continues to evolve, such innovations are crucial for reducing the carbon footprint of airport operations worldwide, demonstrating a proactive approach to integrating eco-friendly technologies in critical response scenarios.