2006 proved to be a banner year for apparatus manufacturers, not only in terms of sales but in new product innovation. Firefighter safety seemed to be on everyone’s mind as several companies introduced more ergonomically-focused designs (lower hose beds); roll stability control; air bags (side and front); improved seats; roomier cabs; seatbelt extenders; better mirrors; and various other improvements, both minor and major. There was also a trend toward mounting tools lower or on front bumpers, whether it be hydraulic rescue cutting tools or just regular hand tools.
The biggest concern for manufacturers, as well as departments purchasing apparatus, was the new 2007 EPA standards that have to be met for all diesel engines next year. There seemed to be a jump in sales the last two quarters, as departments rushed to buy 2006 vehicles with the present engines to bypass the additional costs involved for 2007 engines. The increased costs stem from manufacturers having to produce bigger cabs, grills and cooling systems, and the addition of particulate filters.
Nobody really knows yet how these engines will perform as far as fuel economy and overall performance are concerned. This performance will be closely monitored in 2007.
Whatever the eventual outcome, I definitely think that the fire apparatus industry has improved a great deal in 2006 on a number of levels, a trend I hope will continue as manufacturers push to provide safer apparatus in coming years.