CFA's new light tanker has begun its Australian testing phase. The new tanker is based on a Hino 4WD cab chassis that is used in Japan. The prototype was constructed using a market-evaluation unit that Hino Motor Sales Australia had imported for CFA. Ergonomic and lighting assessments have already been conducted, and performance testing at the Australian Automotive Research Centre in Anglesea has also been completed.
The new vehicle will undergo field testing following the performance evaluations. The tanker will visit the bulk of regions across Victoria, including the Senior Urban Chamipionships in Warrnambool in March and the State Rural Championships in April. The tanker will then travel north to begin its final testing stage at the NSW Rural Fire Service wild fire simulator gas grid in Mogo, where it will undergo burnover testing.
The new tanker has many potential benefits. These include:
- A low-profile, narrow cab that offers excellent off-road capability
- A main pump capable of flows at 1800 litres per minute and three remote control monitors with variable capacity from 40 to 400 litres per minute provide outstanding fire knock-down capability
- An ultra high pressure pump and 60 metres of 12mm hose for blacking-out support allow CFA to conserve more water, and reduce operator fatigue
- Enhanced crew safety features and extra stowage
The evaluation process will inform CFA on what modifications and improvements are required, and a decision on the tanker's suitability will be made in May.
All members are encouraged to take a look at the tanker. You can contact your regional office to find out the dates and locations of the tanker's tour around Victoria.
The video below shows some of the tanker's features:
File size: 13.8MB Running time: 5 mins 55 secs (Broadband recommended)
Produced by CFA Public Affairs
1 comments:
Great concept! Some of these concepts can be spun-off onto other vehicles. Not sure if the cab chassis has enough ramp over, and is at max GVM.
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