Ambulance service strikes electric fleet deal with Skoda

The East Midlands Ambulance Service (EMAS) has chosen the electric Skoda Enyaq as it looks to electrify its fleet. 

Two fully electric Skoda Enyaq 80 models have been introduced to provide the zero-emission service following a successful trial period to evaluate the car’s suitability for blue-light duty.

Trials were conducted last year, with ambulance crews able to feedback.

Andy Watson, fleet assistant general manager at East Midlands Ambulance Service, said: “We are always looking to improve the quality of our vehicles for our patients and our staff by constantly listening to valuable feedback.

“As part of this, we invited colleagues to review the three design prototype models, getting them to share their honest feedback before we proceeded with the conversion of the vehicles.

“Safety, comfort and practicality are our main priorities for both staff and patients alike.”

The Enyaq has undergone a comprehensive conversion and features modifications to suit the demands of the rapid response team.

EMAS says that the car’s interior space and generous carrying capacity mean it can easily accommodate the equipment, supplies and medication required for first responders.

Modifications have been made to the car to optimise range, and include lower consumption LED lighting, reduced-drag light bars and lightweight interior fittings.

Each rapid response vehicle in the East Midlands Ambulance Service covers an average of around 40 miles per day, therefore the Enyaq will be able to cover a 12-hour shift without needing to charge.

The Enyaq can be specified for Ambulance, Police and Fire Brigades across the UK via Škoda’s bespoke emergency service convertors.

This includes full integration of the emergency services’ communications platform within the existing Škoda infotainment touchscreen and 360-degree lighting. Individual customer conversion requirements can also be catered for with Škoda’s approved specialist convertors.