Kansas City Fire Department Expands Specialized UTV Fleet

For Immediate Release: Thursday, July 2, 2026

The Kansas City Fire Department has expanded its emergency response capabilities by adding 10 specialized Utility Task Vehicles (UTVs), giving firefighters and paramedics faster access to patients and incidents in locations where traditional emergency vehicles may face challenges.

The fleet includes six ambulance UTVs, two fire suppression UTVs, and two personnel and command UTVs. Together, the vehicles strengthen the department's ability to respond during large public events, outdoor emergencies, and incidents occurring in crowded or difficult-to-access areas.

The investment is part of KCFD's continued effort to enhance public safety through specialized equipment and innovative response strategies while maintaining the high level of service residents expect every day. Working alongside KCFD's expanding drone program, the specialized vehicles improve mobility, situational awareness and incident response.

Ambulance UTVs

Six ambulance UTVs are fully equipped to provide advanced emergency medical care. Each vehicle carries the same essential medical equipment found on a traditional KCFD ambulance, along with a patient cot for transportation.

The smaller, highly maneuverable vehicles allow paramedics to reach patients more quickly in congested environments, reducing response times during large events while providing immediate medical assessment and treatment.

Fire Suppression UTVs

Two suppression UTVs provide firefighters with rapid-response capabilities for smaller fires and incidents in areas where access to a fire-suppression apparatus may be limited.

Each vehicle is equipped with hose lines and a 75-gallon water tank capable of addressing grass, brush, dumpster, and debris fires. It can also be used to aid in the initial attack on vehicle fires. Theseunits allow firefighters to begin suppression efforts immediately, helping contain incidents until additional resources arrive.

Personnel and Command UTVs

The fleet also includes two, four-door personnel and command UTVs that support supervisory functions, transport personnel across large event footprints, and improve coordination during complex incidents. These vehicles allow incident commanders to move resources more efficiently and improve operational effectiveness during large-scale responses.

The new UTV fleet will support a wide range of public safety operations throughout Kansas City, including FIFA World Cup activities, and beyond; helping the department continue to serve Kansas City for years to come.

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Media with questions may contact Chief Michael Hopkins, KCFD Public Information Officer at [email protected].