The order was placed following a competitive tender and WMAS fleet services general manager Tony Page comments: “O&H scored well... The vehicle layout and engineering ideas they included were first rate, and the steps they have taken to reduce vehicle weight are first class.”
O&H uses aerospace-type build materials that increase vehicle durability and lower weight, reducing fuel consumption and cut CO2 emissions, according to the converter.
“Our ambulances will be easier to drive and more fuel efficient, with lower CO2 emissions and less wear and tear,” predicts Page.
“We are also looking at the introduction of lithium ion battery technology and solar panels. This all ultimately saves money that can be reinvested in recruiting more paramedics, which can only be a good thing for patients.”
WMAS covers an area of 5,000 sq miles, with a population of 5.5 million, and has a five-year replacement policy for its vehicles.