Mercedes-Benz ambulance is just what the doctor ordered

South coast Mercedes-Benz dealer Pentagon Commercials has joined forces with emergency services conversion specialist Kinetic Ambulanz Mobile (KAM) to bring a new concept in ambulances to the UK.

The aerodynamically designed unit is based on a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and offers several major benefits over traditional ambulances. Chief among these are:

Competitive pricing – achieved because the starting point is a standard panel van rather than a chassis cab, so the conversion typically requires less bodywork than a conventional ambulance;

Internal cleanliness – interior panels and all major fixtures and fittings are formed from moulded ABS plastic, the absence of joints making cleaning and disinfection much easier, and

Fuel-efficiency – the exterior body conversion, including the blue light clusters, is shaped to reduce wind resistance, thereby cutting fuel consumption. This in turn means the vehicle offers lower operating costs and has a reduced impact on the environment.

The new design is by leading German ambulance manufacturer Ambulanz Mobile GmbH, whose designers spent time testing their aerodynamic bodywork in the state-of-the-art wind tunnel facility at Mercedes-Benz headquarters, Stuttgart.

Pentagon, which sells and supports the award-winning Mercedes-Benz truck and van range in Hampshire and Dorset, has teamed up with Wimborne-based KAM to build the first demonstration vehicle.

Based on a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 316CDI, this is currently touring the country and creating quite a stir among NHS Trusts and private sector operators, some of which has already ordered units. The first two are about to be delivered to Guernsey Fire & Rescue Service, after senior officers saw a prototype vehicle at the Emergency Services Show late last year

David Brophy, Managing Director of KAM, said: “Given the budgetary constraints facing operators in the current climate, and the need to minimise carbon emissions, a well-built, fuel-efficient ambulance that offers lower operating costs is ideal for both NHS trusts and private ambulance companies.

“This vehicle not only looks smart, professional and modern, it also combines a tried and tested design from one of Europe’s leading ambulance builders with the award-winning Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, which is renowned as the safest and most reliable van on the road.

“Along with its outstanding ‘green’ credentials, low running costs and competitive price, it offers ambulance operators in Britain a highly attractive alternative package.”