Peugeot to supply West Midlands Ambulance Service NHS Trust
The Peugeot Special Vehicle Operation, located next to Peugeot UK’s headquarters in Coventry in the Midlands, has been chosen to supply emergency service vehicles to West Midlands Ambulance Service’s Patient Transfer department. The vehicles were selected predominately because of the product features, ride comfort qualities and the fuel efficiency and environmental low CO2.West Midlands Ambulance Service operates 25 Peugeot vehicles, including the Peugeot Boxer (L4H2 HDi 120) and Expert models – all of which have been converted specifically for these duties.
Three types of van conversion are also being trialled, including one tailored specifically for carrying wheelchairs and a second that’s designed to carry patients on stretchers, while a third is a wheelchair accessible three-seater minibus.
In addition to the specialist vehicles, West Midlands Ambulance Service is also running a fleet of fuel-efficient, low CO2 Peugeot 308 hatchbacks for management transportation duties. The 308 has become world-renowned for its frugality – having set economy-driving records – one recently achieved an average of 126MPG on a circumnavigation of the UK.
The vehicles on assessment by West Midlands Ambulance Service over the coming months could pave the way for Peugeot Special Vehicle Operations supplying ambulances for front-line Accident & Emergency duties.
Graham Cann, Regional Head of Fleet for West Midlands Ambulance Service, said: “We chose the Peugeot vehicles for a number of good reasons, but apart from the virtues of their low running costs and good value for money, it was the interior space in the vehicle that we felt was one of the most important factors as this is where our patients will feel the most comfortable.
“Even the larger vehicles are front wheel drive which provides for a low floor level, while the air suspension means you can lower the rear of the vehicle to make it ideal for easier access for staff handling patients in wheelchairs or on stretchers.”
Louise Brown, Specialist Fleet Sales Manager at Peugeot, said: “Working with West Midlands Ambulance Service is a great opportunity for the Peugeot Special Vehicle Operation to demonstrate the product virtues and quality of its vehicles with the service and support to strengthen our presence in the ambulance sector.”