Pierce Manufacturing again named "Innovator of the Year"

Pierce Manufacturing Inc., the leading North American manufacturer of fire and rescue apparatus, was awarded the 2007 "Innovator of the Year" by Fire Apparatus & Emergency Equipment Magazine, winning the best new apparatus model for its Pierce Ultimate Configuration (PUC). This is the second year in a row Pierce has won this award, winning in 2006 for the Velocity chassis.

The PUC is an industry-changing, multi-purpose response vehicle. The PUC dramatically changes the way the fire service configures apparatus by removing the bulky pumphouse without compromising firefighting capabilities.

According to Fire Apparatus, the PUC won "hands down" because of its unique pump design that provides constant engine-pump power without using the common split-shaft power transfer system. The PUC features a simplified two-step process that helps save precious time in critical situations by eliminating the need to shift from road operation to pump operation upon arrival at a fire scene.

"We are extremely pleased to be recognized with an innovation award for the PUC technology," said Wilson Jones, president of Pierce Manufacturing. "The PUC is another example of Pierce’s commitment to bringing innovative products to the fire and emergency industry. By making better use of the space on fire apparatus, the PUC is definitely changing how firefighters do their jobs, improving their effectiveness and safety."

The PUC offers true pump-and-roll with a two-step pump shift operation that makes it easier to use. In addition to being easier to use, the PUC is also easier to maintain. A power tilting cab and a pump strategically placed above the frame help reduce the time for routine maintenance procedures—such as valve changes—to hours instead of days.

Pierce developed the PUC after field research confirmed that many fire departments are being asked to assist in more non-fire emergency situations. Firefighters indicated the PUC would help bring the additional storage and maneuverability needs that modern response vehicles require.