Spartan Chassis, Inc., a subsidiary of Spartan Motors, Inc., kicked off its exhibition at the Fire Department Instructors Conference (FDIC) with several new products. The product announcements include the Spartan Force, a new emergency response cab and chassis which is purpose-built for the needs of today’s emergency response market, a Secondary Power System (SPS) which is said to reduce fuel consumption and deliver green benefits, and an expanded engine portfolio which now includes Navistar’s MaxxForce13, a 380 hp clean diesel which utilizes advanced in-cylinder emissions technology.
The Spartan Force is the company’s the newest emergency response cab and chassis and can be configured as either a rescue or pumper. It is pre-configured and pre-engineered for departments facing aging apparatus fleets and constrained budgets, the company says. Powered by a 380 hp Cummins ISC 8.3L VG turbo diesel engine, the Spartan Force offers a spacious cab, flat floor and a 10-in. raised roof with four doors and seating for six, as well as a lifetime frame and cross member warranty.
The SPS is offered on the Gladiator and delivered an estimated 51 percent fuel consumption improvement in testing conducted with the Dallas Fire Department. In addition to cost savings, the SPS technology is said to reduces exhaust emissions and noise pollution. It allows for the use of all onboard electrical and HVAC loads with the Main Power Unit (MPU) turned off. It is powered by a 35 – 44 hp engine and delivers consistent voltage and frequency at output levels of 8.5 or 16kW. The SPS is said to reduce the MPU idle time, which in turn enhances its service life and reduces maintenance needs and costs.
Spartan Chassis recently announced a multi-year supply agreement with the Navistar Engine Group allowing for the expansion of clean diesel engine offerings on its Gladiator.
The EPA 2010-compliant MaxxForce 13 Big Bore engine features Navistar’s advanced in-cylinder emissions technology, which is said to minimize the requirements for after treatment components, fluids and weight, and improves space available for critical body applications such as equipment storage.
“As a result of the ongoing economically-sensitive environment, many communities are purchasing vehicles that just do not meet their needs in the effective and efficient delivery of emergency response services,” says Ed Dobbs, senior vice president, Spartan Chassis.
