With the innovative RTX, Chile’s capital embraces sustainability
Rosenbauer presented the first fully electric fire truck for the Santiago de Chile Fire Department, the Cuerpo de Bomberos de Santiago (CBS) — also marking the very first of its kind in Latin America. The RTX represents a significant milestone in the advancement of e-mobility and the modernization of emergency services across the region.
The official unveiling took place at the invitation of CBS Superintendent Gabriel Huerta Torres and was attended by Chile’s Minister of Transport and Telecommunications, Juan Carlos Muñoz, Energy Minister Diego Pardow, and Environment Minister Maisa Rojas. Representatives from SQM Litio, one of the world’s leading lithium producers, and Copec, the largest fuel distribution company in Chile, were also present.
The acquisition of the fully electric RTX is part of a broader comprehensive plan to integrate e-mobility into Santiago’s firefighting operations. The goal is to reduce CO₂ emissions and make the vehicle fleet more sustainable and modern. With this step, CBS underlines its commitment to Chile’s Energy Policy 2050, which aims for a carbon-neutral future.
Powered by two 130 kW electric motors, the fully electric RTX enables environmentally friendly, zero-emission operations. Thanks to an integrated energy backup system, the vehicle can also run seamlessly on suitable e-fuels or, if necessary, diesel. It’s a 4×4 drive, and all-wheel steering ensures optimal traction and exceptional manoeuvrability, especially in challenging terrain and adverse weather conditions, such as those found in the Santiago Valley.
A standout feature of the RTX is its 2,000-litre water tank, providing sufficient supply for various emergency scenarios. The crew cabin accommodates up to nine firefighters — an increased capacity compared to standard models. Delivered fully equipped, the RTX supports the operational readiness of Santiago’s volunteer firefighters. Key funding for the project came from private companies, including SQM Litio and Copec, who made the acquisition possible. In February, the fire department completed a four-week training course, and the vehicle is now officially in service.
In its 161-year history, the Fifth Company of the CBS has always proved to be particularly innovative, for example with the introduction of an advanced steam fire engine in 1870. Today, it is revolutionizing the field once again by becoming the first volunteer fire department worldwide to deploy an RTX, marking the beginning of a new era in emergency response in Chile.
The Santiago Fire Department was founded on December 20, 1863, following the devastating fire at the Iglesia de la Compañía, which claimed around 2,000 lives. It is a volunteer organization whose members serve without pay. Today, CBS comprises 22 units with about 2,000 volunteers and operates a fleet of 51 specialized firefighting vehicles. Its service area spans nine municipalities in the Santiago Province, home to approximately two million people.
Founded in 1873, the Fifth Fire Company of Santiago — known as “Arturo Prat” — is based in the city’s historic district. Recognizable by their green uniforms and vehicles, the company stands for courage, tradition, and a deep-rooted spirit of innovation. Under the motto “Work and Discipline,” its 173 active volunteers make it the largest unit within CBS, dedicated to protecting their community with pride and professionalism.
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