From left to right: an older 13 plate vehicle (manufactured in 2013) next to one of the brand new 22 plate (manufactured in 2022) Fiat Ducatos.
The first of 110 new replacement ambulances have been introduced to stations across the East Midlands as part of our regional fleet programme.
Each brand new vehicle rolled out will replace an older ambulance which will be retired from service.
This is part our ongoing commitment to replace older vehicles with more modern ones when required, with the average age of our vehicles at EMAS being just three years old.
The newer Fiat Ducato 22 plate ambulances will all have the most up-to-date standardised layout. This will ensure all frontline ambulance staff will find the kit they need in the same area of each new ambulance.
These new vehicles also have a range of exciting new features including:
- Full indicator light coverage along the side of the ambulance so other road users can easily identify where the ambulance intends to turn. This safety feature will come in handy during the darker and misty weather where visibility is reduced.
- The capability to safely and more effectively transport patients weighing up to 50 stone and/or who have a body shape and size which prevents them for being safely transported on a stretcher mounted on the right-hand side of the vehicle.
- Labels to help determine the right size child harness required, based on the age of the child – acting upon staff feedback to ensure frontline colleagues are assured they are using the appropriate harness to secure a child patient safely and securely on to the stretcher.
Steve Farnsworth, Assistant Director for Operational Support said:
"Having a modern, standardised fleet continues to support staff in locating what they need quickly in the emergency situation. This in turn can only benefit patient experience and care.
“We are always looking to improve the quality of our vehicles for our patients and staff by constantly listening to feedback.
"Safety, comfort and practicality are our main priorities for both staff and patients alike."
The new standardised layout has been carefully thought through and includes specific storage spaces for all equipment required by the ambulance staff member.
Our Fleet team, with the support of Paramedic Mark Hill, have worked closely with our converters Vehicle Conversion Specialists (VCS) throughout the process of kitting out the Fiat vans to transform them into fully functioning emergency ambulances.
In the below preview of our new ambulances, Mark explores the changes made to the rear cupboard, the capability to safely and comfortably convey patients, upgrades to saloon passenger doors, and other key elements.