Pierce introduced its new Velocity and Impel chassis at the Fire Rescue International show in Dallas, Texas. The new chassis are specifically designed to accommodate 2007 engines and feature improvements in five key areas -- increased space, storage and clutter management, safety and visibility, seats and maintenance.

"These five areas set the Velocity and Impel chassis apart from any other custom chassis in the industry because these design enhancements were made in response to specific requests by fire fighters as to what they want to have in their truck," said John Randjelovic, president of Pierce. "Our objective is the safety and comfort of America's fire fighters, and this new chassis takes it to the next level."

The new Pierce Impel has a wider, more spacious cab. It can handle 2007 engines up to 425hp.

The new Velocity chassis can accommodate 2007 engines up to 525hp and GVWR up to 82,000lb. The Impel chassis is designed for engines up to 425hp and GVWR up to 75,800lb. Both are available with a range of standard and optional configurations and components.

The cabs on both models are 100 in wide for increased interior space, and the engine has been moved forward 7 in to give additional rear occupant foot room. The cab is also 3 in taller than previous cabs. The Velocity has seating for up to 10 persons, and the Impel has seating for up to 8.

Pierce also introduced additional interior storage spaces, frontal air bags, a single-piece windshield, three wiper arms, new mirrors and new seats.

Maintenance improvements include a front tilt hood for fast service access. Engine and transmission doors allow maintenance checks without tilting the cab. The electrical, hydraulic and air system components are routed along the frame rails in a two-piece clamping system with three designated sections to make access and maintenance faster and easier.

For more information, see your Pierce dealer or go to www.piercemfg.com.