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When dependability responds
When firefighters respond, there is no room for hesitation. The equipment behind them has to perform without fail.
In this episode of Power Onward, Kim sits down with Chris to explore the powertrain technology behind fire and emergency vehicles. From engines designed for extreme duty cycles to braking systems that bring massive vehicles to a stop, the conversation looks at what keeps these trucks ready at all times.
Chris shares how Cummins has supported fire service for nearly a century, starting with one of the first diesel-powered fire trucks and continuing with modern innovations that improve performance, maintenance, and emissions. The discussion also highlights how these vehicles operate as mobile power systems, supporting far more than just transport.
Hear how Cummins designs for reliability, supports customers through a strong service network, and continues to improve performance through data, connectivity, and new engine platforms.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- How fire trucks operate as multi-function power systems beyond transport
- Why reliability and braking performance are critical in emergency response
- How connected technology helps keep vehicles in service and ready
Additional Resources:
- Cummins: Fire and emergency
- Cummins 2027 X15 Series
- Cummins X10
- Cummins presents new X10 to more than 36,000 fire, rescue service at FDIC
- Cummins brings disc brakes for single rear-drive axles at FDIC International 2026 | Cummins Inc.
- Truck Equipment Manufacturers and Body Builders
- Fire Pump Drive FAQs
Interested in learning more? Subscribe to the [3-minute Power Up] to get breakthrough stories and the latest innovations in power technology delivered straight to your inbox: https://www.cummins.com/news/podcast#subscribe
Dive into the conversation:
(00:00) This is Power Onward
(00:10) Why fire response depends on reliable equipment
(00:41) Cummins' history in fire service applications
(01:20) What made early diesel fire trucks a step forward
(02:00) Why fire trucks act as mobile power systems
(03:01) Understanding real-world duty cycles
(03:20) Key components that support emergency performance
(04:24) New innovations in braking and maintenance
(05:05) Meeting stricter emissions with new engine designs
(07:00) Support network and connected diagnostics
(09:00) What the future of fire apparatus looks like
View all episodes
By Cummins
4.7
1111 ratings
When firefighters respond, there is no room for hesitation. The equipment behind them has to perform without fail.
In this episode of Power Onward, Kim sits down with Chris to explore the powertrain technology behind fire and emergency vehicles. From engines designed for extreme duty cycles to braking systems that bring massive vehicles to a stop, the conversation looks at what keeps these trucks ready at all times.
Chris shares how Cummins has supported fire service for nearly a century, starting with one of the first diesel-powered fire trucks and continuing with modern innovations that improve performance, maintenance, and emissions. The discussion also highlights how these vehicles operate as mobile power systems, supporting far more than just transport.
Hear how Cummins designs for reliability, supports customers through a strong service network, and continues to improve performance through data, connectivity, and new engine platforms.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- How fire trucks operate as multi-function power systems beyond transport
- Why reliability and braking performance are critical in emergency response
- How connected technology helps keep vehicles in service and ready
Additional Resources:
- Cummins: Fire and emergency
- Cummins 2027 X15 Series
- Cummins X10
- Cummins presents new X10 to more than 36,000 fire, rescue service at FDIC
- Cummins brings disc brakes for single rear-drive axles at FDIC International 2026 | Cummins Inc.
- Truck Equipment Manufacturers and Body Builders
- Fire Pump Drive FAQs
Interested in learning more? Subscribe to the [3-minute Power Up] to get breakthrough stories and the latest innovations in power technology delivered straight to your inbox: https://www.cummins.com/news/podcast#subscribe
Dive into the conversation:
(00:00) This is Power Onward
(00:10) Why fire response depends on reliable equipment
(00:41) Cummins' history in fire service applications
(01:20) What made early diesel fire trucks a step forward
(02:00) Why fire trucks act as mobile power systems
(03:01) Understanding real-world duty cycles
(03:20) Key components that support emergency performance
(04:24) New innovations in braking and maintenance
(05:05) Meeting stricter emissions with new engine designs
(07:00) Support network and connected diagnostics
(09:00) What the future of fire apparatus looks like