Fire Fighters Try Out Twizy

Renault has presented the Paris fire brigade with the keys to an innovative Twizy prototype adapted specifically to the needs of fire fighters.

PARIS – Oct 25, 2012: The Twizy prototype was co-developed by Renault, Renault Tech, the company’s vehicle conversion subsidiary, and the Paris fire brigade. The special model was designed for early interventions ahead of the arrival of further equipment, if needed.

The rear seat has been replaced by a trunk used to store emergency response equipment, i.e. two fire extinguishers, two oxygen tanks, a fire suit, a helmet and a first-aid kit.

Tests of the prototype will begin in November for an eight-month period, the aim being to use Twizy as a support vehicle in Paris and its immediate suburbs and when setting up temporary safety installations (for major public events, July 14, New Year’s Eve, etc.). The Paris fire brigade is reviewing the long-term possibility of setting up a fleet of light electric vehicles, for more efficiency and environmental respect.

According to Claire Petit Boulanger, tertiary safety officer at Renault, “This initial prototype is real-life proof of the research and development work carried out together with the emergency services, demonstrating Renault’s ability and determination to innovate to meet the needs of fire fighters.”

Renault and the French national fire fighter association, FNSPF, signed a partnership agreement on June 21, 2012 to step up their collaborative efforts in fields including technical cooperation and donating vehicles to fire fighters for vehicle-extrication training.