Rosenbauer America and the Dallas Fire-Rescue Department (DFR) have announced a groundbreaking partnership to advance the development of the PANTHER 6x6 electric firefighting vehicle to series production. The pre-series vehicle is set to arrive at Dallas Love Field Airport (DAL) in mid-2025, making it the first airport in the world to receive the cutting-edge, fully electric firefighting vehicle.
During a six-month trial period, DFR will integrate the PANTHER 6x6 electric into daily operations at DAL’s ARFF Station 21. Testing will focus on its performance compared to current vehicles, functionality in training scenarios, and overall operational suitability. Insights gathered during this phase will inform Rosenbauer’s final product development. Following the test phase, the PANTHER 6x6 electric will be permanently incorporated into the DFR fleet.
Interim Fire Chief Justin Ball expressed DFR’s enthusiasm for the project, stating, “We are proud and excited to partner with Rosenbauer in the development of this sustainable technology, which aligns with our mission to reduce carbon emissions while ensuring the safety of Dallas residents and millions of travelers at Dallas Love Field.”
Sebastian Wolf, CEO of Rosenbauer International, emphasized the partnership's role in advancing sustainability, saying, “The PANTHER 6x6 electric represents a significant step in reducing emissions while enhancing safety and efficiency. Partnering with Dallas Fire-Rescue furthers our shared vision of innovation in firefighting technology.”
The vehicle’s introduction aligns with Dallas Love Field’s ambitious sustainability goals. DAL aims to achieve zero emissions by 2040, supported by projects like the replacement of ARFF Station 21 with a modern, energy-efficient facility. The new station will incorporate alternative energy sources and complement the airport’s broader initiatives, such as transitioning to a low-emission fleet.
Dallas Love Field’s Director, Patrick Carreno, highlighted the vehicle’s dual contribution to safety and sustainability: “The addition of the PANTHER 6x6 electric supports DAL’s commitment to enhancing safety and improving energy efficiency while reducing environmental impacts.”
Rosenbauer has already produced and tested three prototypes of the PANTHER 6x6 electric at its Leonding, Austria site. Since October 2024, emergency organizations worldwide have been able to order the vehicle, with deliveries expected to begin in late 2025.
Dallas Love Field, a recognized leader in sustainability, achieved Level 4 – Transformation in the Airport Carbon Accreditation Program in May 2024, one of only five U.S. airports to reach this level. Serving over 17.6 million passengers in 2023 and handling an average of 675 daily aircraft operations, DAL continues to prioritize safety and environmental responsibility as it evolves to meet the demands of its growing passenger and operations base.
