First electric ambulance in the UK: the launch of the West Midlands Ambulance Service

Aiming to reduce pollution and the impact on the environment, the West Midlands Ambulance Service launched the first completely electric ambulance in the UK.

The West Midlands Ambulance Service (WMAS) developed a brand-new ambulance technology along with its partner, conversion specialist VCS. This included the introduction of the first zero-emission e-Ambulance in the UK, which will be fully electric.

First electric ambulance in the UK: the development

The first electric ambulance development by VCS reflects emergency services operators’ desire to bring the sector in-line with the global demand for widespread zero-emission transport.

In the official press release, the West Midlands Ambulance Service reported that: “VCS has used the expert capabilities available within parent company, Woodall Nicholson Group, to develop the zero-emissions powertrain technology which sees the vehicle powered by lithium-ion batteries sited in the underside of the ambulance floor pan in a specifically designed and compliant enclosure. The design has a low centre of gravity and is powered by a 96kW battery pack which provides a top speed of 75 mph and can achieve a range of 105-110 miles with a current recharge time of four hours.  Further developments to the vehicle will be introduced to increase its capability including two hour charge time.”

Thanks to the industry specialists like VCS, the West Midlands Ambulance Service have used aircraft-style technology and design to create the most hi-tech and lightest ambulances in the country. This helped to develop also an electric ambulance in order to reduce the impact on the environment by lowering our CO2 levels and ensured that patients receive the highest standards of safety and comfort.

Managers’ opinions on this incredible fully electric ambulance

Mark Kerrigan, Managing Director at VCS, said: “As the world moves away from fossil fuels and towards a zero-carbon future, it’s important that the emergency services sector keeps pace. VCS has always been at the forefront of emergency service vehicle innovation, so we saw it as our duty to bring the pioneering electric ambulance to market.

“The vehicle launched today is a strong first step on the path to electrification and we’re confident that by working with outstanding operators, such as West Midlands Ambulance Service, we can continue to innovate and improve our zero-emissions offering.”

Tony Page, General Manager for Fleet and Facilities Management at WMAS, said: “The aerospace-type technology on board provides enhanced crash structures, which will improve safety while also enhancing the design of the saloon, which will benefit operational staff and patients alike. This vehicle will allow us to develop this technology rapidly so that we can develop a zero emissions fleet over the coming years.”

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