Dubai already boasts the Burj Khalifa – the world’s tallest building, but soon it could be home to the world’s fastest fire engine. The Dubai government has asked the Guinness World Records to consider Dubai Civil Defence’s small fleet of customised, souped-up Corvette Stingrays sports cars to see if they can claim that accolade.
The Stingrays are specially modified to attain speeds of up to 210 mph (around 335 kmh) and are used to reduce the response time to major emergencies across the Emirate. The cars are equipped with fire extinguishers and first-aid equipment, in addition to various monitoring features and devices.
Lieutenant Colonel Hussain Al Rahoomi, the Head of Station Affairs at Dubai Civil Defence said: “The Guinness World Records’ administration have confirmed that there is no registered fire truck with the same specifications as ours.”
There are currently two Stingrays in front-line operation, but the government is looking to purchase two more by the end of the year. Each car is worth approximately half a million UAE Dirhams (US $136,122 ) without the installed equipment.
The world’s fastest police car is the 2009 Lamborghini Gallardo which has a top speed of 370 kmh (230 mph).
Top Image: One of Dubai Civil Defence’s Corvette Stingray fast response cars pictured at an annual Intersec Exhibition.
About the Author
Neil Wallington is a former British Chief Fire Officer, a Past International President of the Institution of Fire Engineers, and a holder of the Queen’s Commendation for Brave Conduct. He is the author of 17 books on the work of the fire service, and acts as a consultant with extensive experience in the Gulf on a range of projects.
