JFRD tests new hybrid fire truck that could save money, help environment

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department tested a new hybrid fire truck that could be added to its fleet.

On Monday, the bright yellow truck extinguished massive flames with Mayor Donna Deegan riding shotgun.

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“We want to work toward electrifying our fleet or get the hybrid electric with our fleets,” said Mayor Deegan. “So, we’re working on that climate action plan now and if we can do all that and make sure our brave first responders get the absolute best they can get and be healthier while also saving money as a city that’s a huge win.”

The new diesel-electric hybrid truck is from Oshkosh Airport Products in Wisconsin. Both the mayor and Fire Chief Keith Powers said it could save money and help the environment.

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“It doesn’t take any additional training to understand how to use it,” said Chief Powers. “From the inside of the cabin, it’s the same platform as our conventional stuff. Just E-V, and of course with E-V, as it’s under braking and slowing down, it’s regenerating those batteries and in turn saving money.”

Powers said the department is still in the testing phase for the hybrid truck. The negotiations have not started.