Ambulances have evolved over the years as technology and patient care have developed.
New life-saving equipment and improvements in vehicle design have helped ambulance services care for patients in different and better ways.
Now, East Midlands Ambulance Service (EMAS) is preparing to introduce its first electric ambulances, with their gradual introduction into frontline services expected to begin in early 2027.
The ambulances are part of a nationally funded NHS programme. They will be additional vehicles, working alongside our existing fleet as they are introduced into service.
This measured approach will allow us to build our knowledge and experience of the technology and understand the ongoing support the vehicles will need as we begin using them.
The NHS has set an ambition for all new ambulances to be zero emission from 2030. Vehicle manufacturers are also expected to stop selling new diesel, petrol and hybrid vehicles from 2035.
As those changes approach, we are preparing for the future while continuing to focus on the care provided to patients today.
Cara Turton-Chambers, Head of Sustainability at EMAS said:
“Introducing electric ambulances at EMAS is an important milestone and reflects the wider changes taking place across healthcare and the vehicle industry.”
Other ambulance services are already operating electric ambulances, with experiences and learning being shared across the NHS.
Preparations for their arrival at EMAS will include specialist training, investment in charging facilities and our existing experience of operating electric and hybrid vehicles.
Richard Lyne, Deputy Director for Service Transformation at EMAS said:
“Ambulance services have always evolved as technology has changed, and electric ambulances are the next step in that continuing development.
“The work taking place now is about preparing for their introduction into frontline service and making sure we are ready for that next step. Ultimately, what matters is that new technology supports us to continue providing safe, effective care for our patients.”