The Last Word with Kussmaul Electronics’ Colin Chambless

January 28, 2025

Colin Chambless, Vice President of Sales and Business Development at MCE, Vehicle Power, discusses Kussmaul Electronics’ innovation in emergency vehicle solutions

Could you give an overview of Kussmaul Electronics?

Kussmaul Electronics was founded in 1967 when Ernest Kussmaul responded to a fire department struggling with trucks that would not start due to flat batteries.

Early on, the company’s wall-mounted chargers ensured reliable power, helping crews leave the station without delay.

Over time, Kussmaul introduced on-board chargers that travelled with the vehicle, automatic eject systems to safely release power cables, and pumps that maintained air pressure.

Each development stemmed from practical requests within the emergency services field.

Today we supply chargers, eject units, and related devices to fire brigades, ambulances, and other specialized fleets worldwide.

Their equipment supports dependable starts and reduces downtime.

What are some of the challenges Kussmaul is addressing in the emergency vehicle sector?

Many modern vehicles carry heavier electrical loads.

More equipment, complex battery requirements, and stricter engine standards all place higher demands on power systems.

Kussmaul addresses these issues by offering chargers that support strong battery performance even when engines remain off.

We also provide methods that reduce engine idling, saving fuel and cutting emissions.

In some cases, solar chargers help maintain battery levels while a vehicle is parked.

This careful balance of power demands ensures that essential equipment remains ready, environmental guidelines are respected, and crews can depart swiftly whenever an alarm sounds.

Could you share details about a recent product that benefits emergency responders?

One key example is the Auto Eject system.

When the engine starts, it automatically pushes out the shore power plug.

This spares busy responders from unplugging by hand, prevents cables dragging behind, and reduces equipment damage.

There is also the Auto Safe box, which removes power at the source the moment the cable disconnects.

This lowers the chance of electrical hazards, helping ensure safe conditions for both crew and apparatus.

These straightforward solutions emerged from everyday challenges.

We help responders get moving faster, preserve station infrastructure, and keep everyone working under safer conditions.

How does Kussmaul ensure its products meet emergency vehicles’ specific needs?

Each product undergoes thorough internal testing before reaching customers.

A pump, for instance, might run for months to confirm it withstands constant use.

Auto Eject units face repeated mechanical testing to confirm they function reliably time after time.

While some products carry external certifications, much of the assurance comes from Kussmaul’s own stringent testing.

We focus on tough conditions to confirm that equipment can handle the stresses of real service.

This approach means emergency crews receive tools proven under demanding trials.

Kussmaul’s methods help guarantee that once in the field, their equipment remains reliable through frequent, hard use.

What are your aims for the next five years, and how will you adapt?

Kussmaul plans to support changing vehicle technology.

As electric-powered and lower-emission trucks gain ground, we are ready to supply charging and conversion equipment suited to these configurations.

We recognize that tomorrow’s vehicles will need flexible solutions handling higher voltages and new energy sources.

By preparing for these shifts, Kussmaul intends to deliver products that help crews keep vehicles charged and ready.

We already supply a wide range of emergency fleets worldwide.

By staying responsive to technical trends and service requirements, Kussmaul hopes to remain a trusted name in emergency vehicle readiness.

This article was originally published in the January 2025 issue of Fire & Safety Journal Americas. To read your FREE digital copy, click here.

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