At the 2024 AFAC Conference and Exhibition in Sydney, Volvo Trucks showcased their latest innovation in fire appliance design—the Volvo FL 4X4 Crew Cab. Designed to address the unique needs of fire services, this model incorporates a series of factory-fitted modifications aimed at minimising the need for time-consuming and costly post-purchase alterations. Fleet HV News spoke with Matt Wood and Cameron Bettany from Volvo about the truck’s game-changing features.
Built for Australian Conditions
Volvo’s FL 4X4 Crew Cab is specifically designed to serve as a fire appliance, particularly for rural and urban fire services across Australia. Traditionally, standard road-going trucks would be heavily modified after purchase to meet fire service needs. Now, this new model arrives directly from the factory with all critical customisations already integrated, simplifying the process for fire departments and reducing the time the truck spends in modification workshops.
Matt Wood highlighted the importance of fire protection for essential components: “A lot of work’s been done around this truck to make it as fire appliance-ready as it can be. The lagging around the fuel lines, airlines, and wiring harnesses helps ensure that, even in extreme fire conditions, the truck can still operate and perform its vital role.”
Minimising Local Modifications
One of the key selling points of the Volvo FL 4X4 Crew Cab is its ability to reduce the amount of local modification required. The truck comes with essential features like factory-installed fireproofing on critical systems. These include fireproof lagging on fuel lines and airlines, preventing damage during a fire-front scenario, and ensuring the truck remains functional in even the harshest environments.
This factory integration streamlines the body-building process for fire services, saving time and reducing the risk of faults that often occur when external modifications are made. Matt explained, “You don’t want people poking around in places they shouldn’t need to, disrupting vital parts of the truck. The more we can do at the factory level, the better it is for the end-user.”
Ready for Off-Road Challenges
The Volvo FL 4X4 features an advanced all-wheel-drive system that ensures optimal traction in off-road conditions, vital for fire services navigating rough terrain during bushfires. The drivetrain operates with an intelligent differential system, sending power to the wheels that need it most. When engaged, the system delivers power to both front and rear axles, making it easier to manage challenging terrains.
Cameron Bettany explained how the truck meets user demands: “We’ve worked closely with the Rural Fire Service to package the truck in a way that suits their application. Features like the factory-installed winch, bull bar, and improved approach and departure angles ensure the truck can handle the toughest conditions.”
Built-In Durability for Firefighters
One of the standout features is the attention to detail in designing the truck for firefighter safety and convenience. For example, alloy door handles replace the typical plastic ones, which can melt in extreme heat. This critical change ensures that firefighters can still access the cabin during an emergency, even in intense fire conditions. Additionally, the step access to the cab is designed to allow firefighters to quickly and safely enter and exit the vehicle, particularly important when wearing heavy firefighting gear.
The factory-fitted bull bar, integrated winch, and three-piece steel bumper not only offer protection but also improve the truck’s utility in fire scenarios where vehicles may need to clear debris or navigate through rugged landscapes.
Factory-Fitted HVAC System
Another notable feature is the factory-installed air conditioning system, designed to keep the crew comfortable even in the most challenging conditions. The HVAC unit ensures that firefighters can seek refuge in the cab, protected from external temperatures and smoke, allowing them to rest and regroup in between shifts on the front lines.
A Collaboration with End-Users
The Volvo FL 4X4 Crew Cab is the result of close collaboration between Volvo and Australian fire services. As Cameron Bettany mentioned, “Our main approach has been to work closely with the Rural Fire Service and other agencies to ensure the truck is fit for their specific needs. By integrating these features at the factory level, we’re reducing the time it takes for these trucks to be ready for use in the field.”
Balancing Power and Safety
Volvo has raised the bar for fire appliances with its FL 4X4 Crew Cab, offering a specialised truck that balances power, safety, and convenience for firefighters. The model’s focus on reducing local modification time and the risk of operational faults sets it apart from traditional fire truck conversions. With features like fireproof lagging, alloy door handles, and an all-wheel-drive system, the Volvo FL 4X4 is set to become a staple in Australian fire services.
This vehicle is a testament to Volvo’s commitment to innovation and meeting the evolving needs of its customers in the public safety sector.
