RECONNAISSANCE
“Currently the role of site reconnaissance is predominantly carried out by light tankers or QAVs (Quick Attack Vehicles), typically these are modified single cabin commercial utility vehicles such as the Toyota Landcruiser. While the off road performance and maneuverability of such a vehicle is sufficient, its ability to actively suppress a fire threat is severely limited by the considerably small water supply (500lt) and distinct lack of survival engineering, fundamentally making it inadequate for its role.”


SURVIVABILITY
Cabin temperature and vehicle survivability are central to the AMATOYA concept. Existing approaches in survival engineering on fire tankers consistently appears as augmentation rather than integration. Methods are passive, typically reactive and often incapacitate the appliance when in use. A key example is the use of curtain heat shields, while effective, when employed render the appliance out of operation.
To create a homogeneous directive towards survivability AMATOYA incorporates state of the art clear aerogel laminated insulation in the windows and bodywork, a dedicated auxiliary water supply to operate a highly efficient, intelligent temperature controlled spray down system, military grade sacrificial thermo ceramic intumescent paints, and a mechanically injected large displacement diesel engine specifically engineered for the unique conditions experienced on the fire ground.
 
http://www.autoevolution....ing-concept-14951.html


 
The AMATOYA requires only two crew members to be operated effectively which allows for greater distribution of resources in an emergency. In a style more befitting military design the driver is positioned high, central and forward to maximize down vision; this is aided by the lack of a traditional b-pillar which provides uninterrupted views for the ROSCO operator behind the driver.
The ROSCO, or Remotely Operated Suppression Cannon Outfit utilizes IFEX3000 impulse technology to efficiently (and ecologically) combat fire, and reduce the impact to crew members of the stresses of extended high intensity work. It is coupled with a 1800lt + 400lt auxiliary water supply which has been positioned low and centrally to increase vehicle stability.
A thermal imaging camera along with directional spot lights will assist in ‘hotspot’ location to determine the most effective direction of attack.

Student designer Liam Ferguson of Monash University was personally affected by the Victorian bush fires in Australia last year that killed 170 people and left thousands homeless, and has been shortlisted for an Australian Design Award for his AMATOYA vehicle.
In Liam's own words this is a "blue sky concept" and represents an idealistic improvement in almost every current design inadequacy - which seems like a great place for a designer to start.
 
http://www.gizmag.com/ama...ehicle-wildfire/14107/
 

 
Looks nice, but too small. Even for a scout.    :P