American LaFrance

American LaFrance (ALF) is an emergency and vocational vehicle manufacturer, currently based in Summerville, South Carolina. Focusing primarily on emergency apparatus fire engines and fire aerial including ambulance and rescue vehicles.

Focusing primarily on fire engines and fire trucks (ladders), although they also sell rescue vehicles and ambulances. ALF was founded in 1873 by Truckson LaFrance and his partners as the "LaFrance Manufacturing Company," selling hand powered equipment.

In 1995, the company was bought by Freightliner LLC, which is a subsidiary of Daimler-Chrysler. Freightliner continued to utilize American LaFrance's original nameplates and designations. However, most of their products are now built on Freightliner M2 or Sterling Acterra chassis. ALF has manufacturing facilities in Hamburg, NY and Casper, WY. As of 2005, they are the fifth largest manufacturer of emergency vehicles in North America.

In December 2005, it was announced that Freightliner had transferred the ownership of American LaFrance to the New York-based investment firm, Patriarch Partners, LLC. The headquarters and main plant in Ladson, South Carolina are not included in the transaction. However, Patriarch Partners will be allowed to use the plant until early 2007, when DaimlerChrysler will utilize the plant for assembly of the 2007 Dodge Sprinter.

(text source: Wikipedia)