VCS tops new NHS national framework for ambulance converters

VCS has achieved the highest combined score of all bidders in the new NHS Collaborative Procurement Hub Framework Agreement for Ambulance and Specialist Vehicle Conversions.

The Bradford-based business was assessed on its technical ability, quality and financial offers, securing a position at the top of the framework.

The NHS Collaborative Procurement Hub Framework Agreement for Ambulance and Specialist Vehicle Conversions is a new initiative to bring the specification of all ambulances in the UK under a single standard. The new framework will be in place for two years with the option to extend for a further year to a three-year term.

Paul Croom, director of sales at VCS, said: “Our top position placement on the new NHS framework not only confirms the superb quality, innovation and value for money that VCS offers, it also secures our future and provides an excellent platform for growth.

“This result is testament to the great work done every day by our engineering, manufacturing and commercial teams, and allows us to continue development and maintain our position as a market leader in zero emission ambulances, and lightweight conversions.”

VCS says that its Dual Crewed Ambulance could save up to £1.4 million in fuel costs over five years, due to its lightweight construction.

The converted Fiat Ducato recorded a reduction in fuel use of 10% per vehicle, during tested carried out at Millbrook. VCS says that each ambulance could save more than 500 litres of fuel per year.

For an ambulance fleet of 480 vehicles, this equates to 1.2 million litres of fuel over five years, which is an ambulance’s typical lifetime on a fleet. At today’s fuel prices, this equates to a cost saving of £1.4 million.

Tony Page, head of fleet and facilities manager at West Midlands Ambulance Service, said: “Having first started working with VCS in 2011, we are delighted to be able to continue our relationship under this new framework. VCS’s innovation and attention to detail enables us to operate one of the most responsive, accessible and efficient services in the country.”