Ford Australia Builds Solar-Powered Ranger Super Duty Fire Response Concept

Ford Australia has unveiled a new fire response vehicle based on the Ranger Super Duty, designed to fill a gap in initial emergency response in urban areas. The concept uses solar power to run its pumps, eliminating the need for a separate generator.

The vehicle was developed with Deakin University and Ford Pro Converter partner XL Service Bodies. Its goal is to get crews to incidents faster than a full-size fire truck, targeting the eight-minute urban emergency response benchmark. The concept serves as a first-response unit, allowing trained personnel to reach remote or congested sites quickly for early fire suppression, initial damage assessments, and establishing communications while heavier fire trucks are en route.

The build starts with the Super Cab configuration to maximize bed size, keeping the 4,500 kg (9,921 lbs) Gross Vehicle Mass rating. It includes a factory snorkel, an off-road bumper with a bull bar, and custom rear compartments for specialized equipment. On-board high-flow and ultra-high-pressure pumps are powered by a solar inverter and charging system from Zeliox Australia, avoiding the need for auxiliary gasoline or diesel generators.

0-liter V6 turbodiesel producing 207 hp (154 kW / 209 PS) and 600 Nm (443 lb-ft) of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic and full-time 4WD with front and rear differential locks. The example shown at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre is a concept demonstrating the Ford Pro Converter program's capabilities.

Ford says bespoke builds can be produced for emergency services and fleet customers at its Broadmeadows site in outer Melbourne.