Pierce Volterra electric pumper in service with the City of Madison

February 20, 2025

Pierce Manufacturing Inc., an Oshkosh Corporation business and the City of Madison Fire Department, has announced that the first Pierce Volterra electric pumper production unit ordered is now in service with the City of Madison Fire Department in Wisconsin.

The City of Madison Fire Department became the first in North America to test and evaluate the Pierce Volterra platform in a live operational environment and now, they have celebrated the first production custom unit in their fleet—a achievement for both the department and the city’s broader sustainability agenda.

Fire Chief, City of Madison Fire Department, Chris Carbon’s statement

Fire Chief, Chris Carbon, City of Madison Fire Department said: “We are proud to officially welcome the first Pierce Volterra electric pumper production unit.

“This vehicle is a testament to our department’s dedication to innovation, safety and environmental stewardship. The partnership with Pierce has enabled us to deliver the highest-quality apparatus to our firefighters and the community we serve.”

Assistant Fleet Superintendent, City of Madison, Rachel Darken’s statement

Rachel Darken, Assistant Fleet Superintendent for the City of Madison, emphasized the significance of this delivery, saying: “Fire trucks are among the most challenging vehicles to electrify and seeing the first production unit delivered to Madison is a remarkable achievement.

“Adding this electric pumper to our fleet showcases Madison’s commitment to being at the forefront of clean energy innovation while supporting our first responders in their critical mission.” 

Design features of the Pierce Volterra Electric Pumper

The custom-built electric pumper has been designed to align with the City of Madison’s environmental and operational goals, offering zero-emissions pumping and driving in EV mode.

It features Pierce’s patented parallel-electric drivetrain and a comprehensive charging infrastructure supported by Madison Gas and Electric, helping to ensure uninterrupted performance and seamless integration into the department’s fleet.

Notable design features of the City of Madison’s Pierce Volterra Electric Pumper include:

  • Pierce Enforcer custom chassis with seating for six.
  • TAK-4 Independent Front Suspension.
  • 246 kWh battery solution with a six-year warranty.
  • Consolidated high-voltage integration for safety and efficiency.
  • 1,500 GPM single-stage pump and 500-gallon water tank.
  • Zero-emissions pumping and driving with seamless backup power from an internal combustion engine.

President, Reliant Apparatus, Jason Krueger’s statement

Jason Krueger, President of Reliant Fire Apparatus shared: “This is an exciting milestone for the fire service industry and our valued partnership with the City of Madison.

“Integrating a Volterra electric pumper into their fleet is a testament to Madison’s leadership and Pierce’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology.”

The City of Madison’s Pierce Volterra Electric Pumper is now in service: Summary

The City of Madison Fire Department became the first in North America to test and evaluate the Pierce Volterra platform in a live operational environment and now they are the first to have the vehicle in their fleet.

Rachel Darken, Assistant Fleet Superintendent for the City of Madison said fire trucks are among the most challenging vehicles to electrify and seeing the first production unit delivered to Madison is a remarkable achievement.

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