The new vehicle means that SFRS no longer has to use frontline appliances for training purposes.
“Previously, we relied on a regular truck for Category C training with trainees, then progressing to one of our frontline fire appliances for EFAD (Emergency Fire Appliance Driver) training,” explains Rory Coulter, head of logistics for SFRS.
“Now, one truck serves both purposes, with the added bonus that we have an additional vehicle which can be used as a frontline incident support unit as and when needed.”
Based on an 18-tonne gvw, 320bhp Scania chassis, the body is by Kurt Hobbs Coachwork of Kettering with the build project overseen by Scania dealer TruckEast of Wellingborough.
The five-seat Scania crew cab has an all-steel construction for maximum safety. A computer and monitor is located in front of the three rear seats, allowing the area to be used as a mobile training room.
The body can carry eight 1,000-litre IBCs (intermediate bulk containers), six of which are filled with water to simulate realistic operating conditions. At the rear, the doors are secured internally to leave a clear area for graphics and safety messages.
Coulter says TruckEast was “a natural choice” given its reputation as a specialist appliance supplier.
He adds: “In terms of the Scania chassis and crew cab, our experience of the market has shown Scania to be a high quality, reliable product with a long life expectancy and low whole-life costs.”