Rosenbauer’s commitment to innovation and foreign investment acknowledged

Rosenbauer America, a leading manufacturer of fire apparatus, has been honoured with the 2023 Governor’s International Trade Award.

This recognition comes as a testament to the company’s significant contributions through foreign direct investment and its pioneering efforts in electric vehicle (EV) fire trucks.

Kevin McKinnon, Deputy Commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Economic Development and Research, highlighted Rosenbauer America’s growth and transition into EV fire trucks as key factors for this accolade.

The Governor’s International Trade Awards annually recognise Minnesota companies excelling in foreign market exports and foreign-owned firms contributing significantly to Minnesota’s economy.

Rosenbauer America’s journey in Minnesota

Rosenbauer’s history in Minnesota dates back to 1929, starting with General Safety Fire Equipment in Lindstrom.

After merging with Austria’s Rosenbauer International in 1995, the company has significantly grown its presence in the state.

Operating from Wyoming, Minnesota, Rosenbauer Minnesota and Rosenbauer Motors now employ over 450 people and produce more than 700 fire apparatus yearly, serving both domestic and international markets.

Edmund Penz, Director of RTX and EV Technology at Rosenbauer America, expressed pride in the company’s recognition for its investment in the future of firefighting.

Rosenbauer’s pioneering electric fire engine

The Rosenbauer RTX electric fire engine represents a groundbreaking development in emergency vehicles.

Designed from scratch, this fully electric fire truck is set to be deployed in Minnesota’s capital, St. Paul, joining other forward-thinking cities like Los Angeles, Vancouver, and Boulder in electrifying their firefighting fleets.

IFSJ Comment

Rosenbauer America’s receipt of the 2023 Governor’s International Trade Award is a significant milestone in the fire and safety industry.

This award reflects the company’s dedication to innovation, particularly in developing electric fire trucks, which are critical for sustainable and efficient emergency response solutions.

Rosenbauer’s presence in Minnesota, dating back nearly a century, underscores the long-standing commitment to the state’s economic development and the fire safety sector.

The deployment of their electric fire engine, the RTX, in St. Paul and other cities marks a significant shift towards environmentally friendly firefighting technologies.

This move not only aligns with global sustainability goals but also sets a new standard in emergency vehicle technology, potentially influencing future designs and implementations in the industry.