Mercedes Ambulance; Fast, Spacious, and Built to Save: Inside the Mercedes-Benz Ambulance

Mercedes ambulance - Mercedes Ambulance Sprinter

Introduction to Mercedes Ambulances

Mercedes ambulance; As one of the world’s leading automobile manufacturers, Mercedes-Benz has a long history of producing high-quality, reliable vehicles for emergency medical services. For over 50 years, Mercedes has been manufacturing custom ambulances that combine luxury, safety, and performance with the specialized needs of EMTs and paramedics.

Mercedes ambulances start with a rugged yet comfortable Mercedes-Benz van or truck chassis, engineered for smooth handling and durability. Custom coachbuilders then outfit the chassis according to each client’s unique specifications. The result is a Mercedes ambulance designed for optimal patient care, with customized storage, state-of-the-art medical equipment, and an intelligent, ergonomic layout tailored to EMT workflows.

At the heart of every Mercedes ambulance is the Mercedes commitment to safety and technological innovation. Features like anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, and accident avoidance systems help EMTs transport patients securely even in challenging conditions. Mercedes ambulances also integrate the latest electronics, from navigation and telematics to fully digital instrument clusters that provide drivers with real-time feedback.

While each ambulance is customized to the client, Mercedes offers versatile model lines that serve as trusted ambulance platforms. The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is a popular full-size van capable of accommodating various medical layouts and equipment. The Mercedes-Benz Metris mid-size van offers excellent maneuverability for navigating tight city streets. Mercedes-Benz also offers four-wheel-drive ambulances based on its Sprinter 4×4 and G-Wagen SUV models for accessing off-road emergencies.

With their enduring build quality, safety, and versatility, Mercedes-Benz ambulances have become indispensable vehicles for EMTs and medical transportation services worldwide. As a premier ambulance manufacturer, Mercedes delivers reliable, high-performance emergency vehicles designed around patient care.

Models

Mercedes-Benz offers several different models of ambulances customized for emergency medical services. The most popular models include:

Sprinter

The Sprinter is the flagship ambulance model from Mercedes. It offers maximum interior space and customizable options for various medical equipment and storage needs. Sprinter ambulances are available in multiple lengths and roof heights. Some key features include:

  • Powerful diesel engine options up to 188 hp
  • Large interior with walkthrough capability
  • Integrated LED emergency lighting
  • Durable, easy-to-clean interior materials
  • Adjustable partition wall behind cab
  • Rear and side step access

Vito

For smaller medical transportation needs, the Vito delivers an optimal balance of compact size and practicality. Vito ambulances maximize use of space with options like:

  • Folding co-driver seat for access between cab and rear
  • Modular rail system for custom storage
  • Workplace lighting and power outlets
  • Range of all-wheel drive capabilities

Viano

The Viano ambulance provides an interior layout focused on caring for 1-2 patients comfortably. Key Viano ambulance features:

  • Spacious rear cabin with flat floor
  • Ergonomic workstation and doctor’s seat
  • Large side and rear doors for easy loading
  • Optional 4MATIC all-wheel drive
  • Available luxury features like leather, navigation and parking assist

Mercedes ambulances offer custom-built transportation to suit small clinics to large hospital systems. With safety, interior flexibility and powerful performance, Mercedes models can be equipped for top-quality emergency medical services.

Safety Features

Mercedes ambulances are engineered with cutting-edge safety technology to protect drivers, passengers, and patients. Key safety features include:

Pre-Safe System

The Pre-Safe system is designed to detect emergency situations and prepare the vehicle and occupants accordingly. It can tighten seatbelts, adjust seats to optimal positions, close windows and the sunroof, and even prime the brakes for maximum responsiveness if needed. This can reduce the risk and severity of accidents.

Airbags

Mercedes ambulances have up to 10 airbags located throughout the cabin, including driver and passenger front airbags, side airbags, curtain airbags, and knee airbags. These provide protection in the event of a collision from all angles. Side airbags even have separate chambers for driver and passenger.

Traction Control

Advanced traction control helps maintain control and stability on wet, icy, or loose road surfaces. It prevents wheel spin by braking individual wheels and modulating engine power. This is essential for navigating safely in all conditions that ambulance crews may encounter.

With robust occupant protection technologies like these, Mercedes ambulances provide some of the best possible safety for transporting patients and emergency responders. Cutting-edge engineering keeps crews protected on the job.

Performance

The Mercedes ambulance is built for speed and responsiveness in emergency situations. It offers powerful engine options to provide rapid acceleration and high top speeds when needed.

The standard engine on most models is a 3.0L V6 diesel engine producing 190 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. This provides strong low-end torque for quick acceleration from a stop, allowing the ambulance to rush to an emergency scene promptly. The V6 can propel the ambulance from 0-60 mph in around 10 seconds.

For even more power, an optional 4.0L turbocharged V8 diesel is available on some models like the Sprinter. This engine generates 325 horsepower and a massive 516 lb-ft of torque. The turbocharged V8 can launch the ambulance to 60 mph in under 8 seconds, giving it sports car-like acceleration. Top speed is electronically limited to 100 mph.

The powerful engines are matched to responsive automatic transmissions that allow the driver to access full power on demand. Advanced all-wheel drive is also available to put the engine power down effectively at all four wheels for maximum traction and control.

Overall, the potent engine options of the Mercedes ambulance give emergency medical teams the ability to respond rapidly and safely, getting to the scene as quickly as possible to administer potentially life-saving care. The powerful performance can make a critical difference in time-sensitive emergency situations.

Interior

The interior of a Mercedes ambulance is designed for maximum comfort, ergonomics, and functionality.

Ergonomic Driver Area

The driver area in a Mercedes ambulance provides comfortable seating and easy access to controls. The seats are adjustable and include lumbar support to reduce strain during long shifts. The steering wheel tilts and telescopes to accommodate drivers of different sizes. Controls are positioned for easy reach and visibility, with larger knobs for gloved operation.

Mercedes ambulances have an optimized dashboard layout, with the most commonly used controls and displays positioned closest to the driver’s line of sight. This reduces distraction and the need to look away from the road. Climate and audio controls are easy to operate by touch alone.

Patient Compartment

The patient area in a Mercedes ambulance is thoughtfully laid out for providing care. There is ample head room and the interior sides are padded for safety. Flooring is non-slip and the surfaces are easy to clean and disinfect.

Patient cots are positioned for safe loading and unloading. Mercedes ambulances have integrated mounting points for medical equipment and supplies. Oxygen, suction, and 12V DC power outlets are conveniently located throughout the patient area. Interior lighting is designed for visibility during medical procedures.

Many storage compartments, cabinets, and drawers keep medical gear organized and close at hand. The layout ensures caregivers can easily reach the patient from all sides during transport.

Exterior

The exterior of Mercedes ambulances focuses on durability, visibility, and style.

Bodywork

The bodywork features thick metal panels and robust construction to withstand the demands of emergency services work. Doors, hoods, and compartments are reinforced. Bumpers and side panels protect the ambulance from scrapes and minor collisions. The wider track chassis provides stability even at high speeds or when cornering.

Lighting

Bright halogen headlamps provide visibility in low light conditions. Additional emergency roof lighting signals the ambulance’s presence. Scene lights illuminate the area around the vehicle at night. The extensive lighting aids paramedics and helps warn other drivers to yield.

Paint

Mercedes ambulances feature bold reflective decals and high-visibility paint jobs. Vibrant colors like red and yellow attract attention on the road. Reflective striping glows when illuminated, improving the ambulance’s presence at night or in bad weather. Custom painted emblems and logos promote brand identity. Clear-coated paint resists damage from the elements and routine cleaning.

Technology

Mercedes ambulances are equipped with advanced telematics, navigation, and electronics to enhance productivity and safety.

The MBUX infotainment system provides intuitive voice control and touch screen capabilities. Drivers can access navigation, hands-free calling, entertainment features, and vehicle information through the central display screen. MBUX learns and adapts to user habits over time for a personalized experience.

Telematics systems like Mercedes PRO connect allow fleet managers to track vehicle locations, maintenance needs, driving behaviors, and more through online portals. This improves efficiency and reduces downtime.

Driver assistance features utilize radar, cameras, and other sensors. These include automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, and drowsiness detection. Mercedes ambulances also have special modifications like rear camera displays to aid maneuverability.

LED accent lighting and backlit controls increase visibility inside the cabin during nighttime emergencies. Additional 12V, USB, and 220V power outlets allow crews to charge medical devices and equipment.

Mercedes ensures its ambulance interiors minimize noise and vibrations for optimal care environments. Acoustic foam insulation, noise-dampening floor materials, and multi-layer glass reduce unwanted sounds. The suspension system smooths out bumps and uneven road surfaces during transport.

Customization

Mercedes ambulances are highly customizable to meet the unique needs of emergency medical services. Mercedes works with ambulance manufacturers to offer a range of conversion options for transforming these vehicles into emergency response units.

Some of the most popular Mercedes models used for ambulance conversions include the Sprinter, Metris, and S-Class. These models provide the ideal platform for building a spacious, high-performance ambulance.

The Sprinter is the most commonly used Mercedes model for ambulance conversions. Its large cargo area and tall roof make it easy to customize the interior to hold medical equipment, stretchers, and seating for paramedics and patients. The Sprinter comes in several lengths, from a small 144″ wheelbase to an extended 170″ wheelbase. This allows the interior space to be customized based on the needs of the emergency service. Upfits can include cabinetry, bench seats, lighting, flooring, and storage solutions.

The Metris mid-size van is also growing in popularity for ambulance conversions. Its manageable size combined with Mercedes engineering makes it nimble and reliable. The Metris ambulance can be outfitted with many of the same options as the Sprinter, just on a smaller scale.

For critical care transport, the Mercedes S-Class sedan can be transformed into a specialized ambulance. It provides a luxurious ride for transporting patients requiring intensive medical monitoring and care. The ample trunk space allows for installation of necessary medical equipment.

Beyond the standard conversion options offered, Mercedes ambulances can also be customized with specialized accessories and packages. For example, they can be outfitted with all-weather floormats, storage bags and compartments, upgraded lighting, sirens, emergency vehicle graphics, and much more. Mercedes works closely with ambulance manufacturers and upfitters to accommodate unique customization requests. This allows EMS providers to get an ambulance tailored specifically to their operational needs.

Maintenance

Mercedes ambulances are designed for reliability and long service life. However, like any vehicle, they require regular maintenance to keep them in optimal condition.

Mercedes recommends service intervals every 10,000 miles or 12 months, whichever comes first. During these routine services, technicians will check fluid levels, inspect brake pads and tires, test battery and charging system, and so on. More comprehensive inspections are recommended every 20,000 miles.

The Mercedes ambulance comes with a standard limited warranty that covers the vehicle for 3 years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. The warranty covers any defects in materials or workmanship. Major components like the engine and transmission are covered for 5 years or 100,000 miles.

To keep the warranty valid, all maintenance and repairs should be completed by factory-trained Mercedes technicians using OEM parts. Owners must keep detailed records of maintenance.

Out of warranty repairs can be costly if neglected. However, with proactive preventative maintenance and repairs as soon as any issue crops up, the service life of a Mercedes ambulance can exceed 200,000 miles. Many commercial fleets and municipal agencies report Mercedes ambulances lasting up to 300,000 miles before needing replacement.

Overall, the Mercedes ambulance is built to handle heavy daily use and reliably transport patients in all conditions when properly maintained. The vehicle’s rugged dependability makes it a smart choice for EMTs.

Cost

A Mercedes-Benz ambulance starts at around $170,000 for a base model and can go up to over $300,000 for a fully loaded unit. Exact pricing depends on the year, model, custom features, mileage, and condition of the vehicle.

As with purchasing other types of emergency vehicles, many EMS organizations lease their ambulances or finance them through a bank loan. Leasing often comes with a lower monthly payment but less ownership equity. Financing through a loan allows the organization to fully own the vehicle after payments are complete.

Some financing options for a new Mercedes ambulance include:

  • 5-year loan with 20% down payment. Monthly payments around $4,500.
  • 7-year loan with 15% down payment. Monthly payments around $3,400.
  • 10-year loan with 10% down payment. Monthly payments around $2,600.

The overall affordability depends on the budget and finances of the EMS organization. Larger municipalities often have more resources to purchase top-of-the-line vehicles, while smaller organizations may need to be more cost-conscious. Grants and other funding opportunities can assist with offsetting the expense as well.

When calculating total cost of ownership, maintenance and fuel costs need to be considered in addition to the purchase price. Mercedes ambulances have a reputation for safety, durability, and retaining resale value, which can help justify the higher initial investment. Proper maintenance helps ensure a long service life for the vehicle.

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