Beaverton Fire Department announced the addition of a fully electric rescue vehicle to its fleet โ a 2025 Chevrolet Silverado EV. The truck will serve as a light medical rescue unit and resource support vehicle, significantly boosting the departmentโs emergency response capabilities while reinforcing its commitment to environmentally conscious practices.
This latest addition was made possible thanks to a $89,000 grant from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE). In addition to the new EV, the grant also funded the purchase of battery-powered portable lighting, a move expected to cut fuel and maintenance costs while enhancing safety for first responders at emergency scenes.
โWeโre extremely grateful to the granting agency, EGLE, for awarding us funds to procure these items,โ said Beaverton Fire Chief Phillip Andrist. โWithout them, it wouldnโt have been feasible to budget in the near future. This equipment helps us transition into using newer, more efficient, safer equipment, allowing us to better serve our residents.โ
The department sees the new equipment as more than just a vehicle upgrade โ itโs a symbol of progress. The Silverado EV and supplemental gear represent a significant investment in both public safety and environmental stewardship, according to the department.
Community members are invited to see the new vehicle and new gear up close during the departmentโs third annual Pancake Breakfast, scheduled for Memorial Day (May 26) from 8 to 11 a.m. at the fire station.
