Powerhouse for Tyrol.

The decision for the chassis from Wörth was quickly made in Brixlegg. The fire brigade's fleet already largely consists of vehicles with the star, and decades of positive experience were decisive.

Added to this were Tyrol's topographical conditions and the technical requirements regarding weight, which made the Actros 2551 the first choice. The procurement focused on a durable design and modern, state-of-the-art equipment.

Technically, the Actros impresses, among other things, with its air suspension. It keeps the vehicle at a constant height regardless of the load and prevents it from sinking under heavy loads. At the same time, it protects sensitive goods from shocks, as road irregularities are damped much better than with mechanical leaf springs. The even load distribution also protects the vehicle's structure and increases the service life of the load securing systems.

On the robust chassis works a HIAB X-HIPRO 232 E-5 loading crane, which gives the Actros enormous versatility. Whether lifting accident vehicles or clearing storm damage such as windthrow: the crane is suitable both for heavy lifting and for precise, fine-motor tasks. Thanks to a wide range of additional equipment such as a universal grab, winch and pallet fork, it can adapt to any situation.

Its strengths are particularly evident in firefighting operations: an electric water or foam launcher can be mounted directly on the crane via a quick-change device. There are even special lifting eyes for B pressure hoses. When work at height is required, the two-person work platform is used. For the operators, the remote control is a great relief in everyday work and can also improve safety.

However, the vehicle’s main area of expertise remains transport. The Actros is fitted with a Multilift Ultima 18Z.56 roll-off tipper. The flexible and user-friendly handling is perfectly tailored to everyday firefighting operations. The quantum leap for FF Brixlegg lies in the payload: while the predecessor vehicle, a smaller transporter, reached its limits at 900 kilogrammes, the new Actros handles around nine tonnes.

This makes it possible to move large quantities of foam extinguishing agent or sandbags in a single trip during severe weather events. The concept also includes a logistics roll-off container with a sliding tarpaulin and a tail lift that can lift over 1,500 kilogrammes. A translucent roof provides natural lighting inside the container, while lashing rings and airline rails secure the load.

The arrival of the Actros was a special moment for the crew. More than ten years passed from the initial idea to commissioning – so the excitement was all the greater when the vehicle finally stood in the fire station. The response from the team is uniformly positive: the modern equipment motivates and the wide range of applications fascinates. Intensive training ensures safety.

Eleven operators completed a special crane course at the Tyrol State Fire Service School, supplemented by weekly exercises and skills courses.

With the Actros 2551, FF Brixlegg has not only modernised its own fleet, but also created added value for the entire region. The vehicle can be used across regions and greatly relieves the load on the crew during loading and transport activities. Spacious equipment boxes on the vehicle also ensure quick access to important equipment. In cooperation with bodybuilder Empl, a vehicle has been created that combines power, flexibility and safety.