Polaris Government and Defense has expanded its mission-critical vehicle lineup with a new suite of firefighting and rescue solutions. By leveraging its existing off-road platforms, the manufacturer aims to provide specialized departments with integrated equipment designed for the extreme demands of wildland and rural emergency response.
According to the company, these developments were created in collaboration with QTAC. The focus was to move beyond generic aftermarket accessories, providing instead a validated, turnkey solution for first responders operating in rugged terrain where traditional fire trucks cannot reach.
XD Firefighting Skid for Ranger XD 1500
The flagship of this new offering is the XD Firefighting Skid. Built specifically for the Ranger XD 1500, this unit features a 100-gallon water tank and a 9-horsepower Waterax pump. The system is equipped with an electric hose reel and an optional 2.5-gallon foam capacity with a Viper nozzle. Polaris notes that the Ranger XD 1500 is currently the only vehicle in its class capable of handling the significant payload requirements of this firefighting configuration.
Rescue-X Skid for XPEDITION
For remote medical operations, Polaris introduced the Rescue-X Skid, designed for the Polaris XPEDITION. This enclosed unit is tailored for deep backcountry triage. It includes dedicated space for a full-length litter, an attendant seat, oxygen bottle storage, and secure compartments for medical gear. The modular design ensures that the unit can be securely mounted to the vehicle, providing stability during transport over uneven terrain.
Tiered Emergency Lighting Systems
Complementing the skids is a new three-tier lighting lineup: Standard, Premium, and Ultimate. These modular systems include sirens, roof bars, and body-mounted lighting. They are compatible with the Ranger XP 1000 and Ranger XD 1500, allowing departments to scale their equipment based on specific operational needs.
Shane Novotny, director of engineering for Polaris Government and Defense, emphasized the importance of these integrations. As a part-time firefighter himself, Novotny stated that the goal is to provide responders with equipment that enhances efficiency and safety in environments where every second counts.
