A CUMNOCK-BASED fire and rescue vehicle manufacturer has announced it is to produce the world’s first fully electric fire engine.

Emergency One presented the new E1 Ev0 appliance through its social media channels on Friday.

Managing Director Mike Madsen said: “We are excited to unveil our E1 Ev0 – the world’s first all-electric pumping appliance, and our innovative contribution towards a low-carbon economy.

“We look forward to seeing the reaction from our customer base and the wider public.”

The new engine has been designed with the protection of both fire fighters and the environment in mind, with Emergency One assuring that zero emissions does not mean safety has been compromised.

It is hoped the new vehicle can help fire services go one step further in keeping the public safe by reducing the environmental impact of its operations and protecting future generations.

The promotion of electric appliances is in line with the company’s mission to continuously innovate whilst reducing waste.

Scottish Transport Secretary Michael Matheson said: “Alongside our ambition to phase out new petrol and diesel cars and vans by 2032, we have set out ambitious targets for the Scottish Public Sector to decarbonise their vehicle fleets.

“It’s great to see Emergency One innovating to bring a cutting edge zero emission fire appliance to the market, manufactured here in Scotland.

“I look forward to seeing further innovations in the zero emission marketplace as we work towards out net-zero targets and air quality objectives.”

Linda Hanna, managing director of Scottish Enterprise, said she hopes the announcement will influence more businesses to branch out into sustainable production.

She said: “Emergency One is a fantastic example of a Scottish Manufacturer with export ambitions.

“Scottish Enterprise is proud to have worked with this company over many years and to have supported this project to create the world’s first zero net fire engine, built in Cumnock, that will not only save

lives in the role it will serve but also contribute to Scotland’s wider low carbon target.”