Schiltrac builds first fire truck with tracks and wheels

Schiltrac Fahrzeugbau GmbH from Buochs in the Swiss canton of Nidwalden is building its first fire truck with tracked treads for winter and wheels for summer. It was ordered by the mountain resort of Stoos, located on a high plateau in the Swiss canton of Schwyz. “During the demonstration with tracks on snow, we were impressed by the performance of the 245 hp Schiltrac, which we urgently need,” David Lüönd, commander of the Stoos fire department, is quoted as saying in a statement from Schiltrac. “The vehicle as a whole has completely won us over.”

The flexible, multifunctional vehicle carrier is being produced at the company headquarters in Buochs, while the fire-fighting body is being built in Sachseln in the Swiss canton of Obwalden. According to Peter Barmettler, owner of Schiltrac Fahrzeugbau and PETER BARMETTLER FAHRZEUGE GmbH, the vehicle will be delivered in summer 2026.

He goes on to explain that the Schiltrac fire truck is characterized by its off-road capability, modularity, and compact design. The tracked treads enable “excellent grip on snow, ice, mud, and scree, prevent sinking, and minimize ground damage” – even in extreme winter conditions and on slopes.

The Schiltrac has a six-cylinder Deutz engine and 245 hp with continuously variable transmission. The payload is up to eight tons on wheels and six tons on tracks. For greater maneuverability, it has four-wheel steering and can navigate tight spaces.

Schiltrac GmbH has been nominated for the Prix SVC Central Switzerland 2025 from the SME network Swiss Venture Club (SVC). The award honors companies for their innovative products and services, their corporate culture, the quality of their employees and management, and their proven track record of sustainable success. The award ceremony will take place on 22 May 2025, at Lucerne Culture and Congress Center. ce/mm