Mercedes Ambulance
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## Introduction
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vans have been a top choice for ambulance conversions for over 20 years. Known for their durability, safety, and customizability, Sprinter vans make excellent ambulances and medical transport vehicles.
The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter ambulance comes equipped with a range of powerful engines, robust transmissions, and spacious interior dimensions to accommodate emergency medical equipment and providers. Key technical specifications and details include:
– Engine options from 161 to 188 horsepower
– 5-speed automatic transmission
– Overall length from 233 to 273 inches
– Payload capacity up to 2,800 pounds
– Diesel and gasoline engine options
– Safety features like stability control and adaptive brakes
– Customizable ambulance conversion options
– Pricing from $50,000 to over $100,000
This overview will provide a comprehensive look at the vital technical specifications of the Mercedes Sprinter ambulance. Whether you’re an EMT looking to better understand these emergency response vehicles or a fleet manager considering an ambulance purchase, this guide offers key details on power, performance, safety, and customization.
## Engine Options
The Mercedes Sprinter is available with two engine options – a gasoline V6 engine and a diesel V6 engine.
The gasoline engine is a 3.0L V6 that produces 276 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. The gasoline V6 meets the latest Euro 6d SUV emission standards. It provides smooth, quiet operation but sacrifices some fuel efficiency compared to the diesel.
The diesel option is a 3.0L V6 turbodiesel engine that generates 258 lb-ft of torque and 188 horsepower. This engine is mated to a 7-speed automatic transmission. The diesel V6 complies with the strict Euro 6d TEMP emission standards. It provides robust torque delivery and excellent fuel efficiency, at the expense of higher upfront cost and engine noise compared to the gasoline V6.
Both engines utilize direct injection and variable valve timing technology to optimize performance and efficiency. The Sprinter’s V6 engines provide a balance of power, efficiency, and emissions when configured as an ambulance. Fleet managers can choose between gasoline or diesel depending on their performance, budget, and emissions needs.
## Transmission
The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter ambulance comes equipped with a smooth-shifting 7-speed automatic transmission. This electronically controlled transmission allows for optimal power delivery and fuel efficiency.
The 7-speed auto has lower first and second gear ratios compared to the previous 5-speed transmission, allowing for better acceleration from a stop. At highway speeds, the taller 6th and 7th gears help keep engine rpm lower for quieter cruising.
The transmission features Mercedes’ 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive system on select models. 4MATIC sends power to all four wheels, improving traction and stability on wet, snowy, or uneven road surfaces. This is an important safety feature for emergency vehicles operating in all conditions.
Gear ratios for the 7-speed auto are as follows:
– 1st gear: 4.38
– 2nd gear: 2.86
– 3rd gear: 1.92
– 4th gear: 1.37
– 5th gear: 1.00
– 6th gear: 0.82
– 7th gear: 0.73
Reverse gear ratio is 3.42.
The 4MATIC AWD system normally sends 60% of torque to the rear wheels and can dynamically shift up to 100% to either axle as needed. This smart distribution of power helps improve handling and control.
Overall, the transmission in the Sprinter ambulance delivers smooth, responsive acceleration and efficiency needed for emergency medical services. The availability of 4MATIC AWD provides an important boost in mobility when responding in difficult conditions.
## Dimensions
The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter ambulance comes in multiple configurations with varying dimensions. Here are some of the key dimensions for the different Sprinter models:
– Length: The overall length ranges from 233.3 inches for the 144-inch wheelbase Sprinter up to 290.7 inches for the 170-inch extended wheelbase model.
– Width: All models share the same width of 83.8 inches (including mirrors).
– Height: Height ranges from 105.2 inches for the regular roof vans up to 110.4 inches for the high roof models.
– Wheelbase: As mentioned earlier, the Sprinter is available with 144-inch, 170-inch, and 170-inch extended wheelbases. The longer the wheelbase, the more interior space is available.
– Ground Clearance: Ground clearance for all Sprinter models is approximately 7.3 inches when unloaded. This helps provide good off-road capability when accessing remote locations.
The multiple wheelbase, roof height, and length configurations allow buyers to customize the Sprinter ambulance to their specific needs in terms of interior space and maneuverability. The tall ride height and ground clearance also make the Sprinter well-suited for use on rough roads and accessing rural locations.
## Weight and Capacity
The Mercedes Sprinter ambulance has impressive hauling capabilities thanks to its sturdy body-on-frame construction. Here are some key weight specifications:
– **Curb Weight**: The curb weight of a Mercedes Sprinter 2500 ambulance ranges from 5,367 lbs to 5,577 lbs depending on the configuration. This is the weight of the vehicle including all standard equipment and fluids, but without passengers or cargo.
– **Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)**: GVWR is the maximum allowable total weight of the ambulance when loaded with passengers and cargo. Mercedes Sprinter ambulances have a GVWR between 8,550 lbs and 9,990 lbs depending on the model.
– **Maximum Payload Capacity**: By subtracting the curb weight from the GVWR, you can determine the maximum payload or hauling capacity. For a Mercedes Sprinter 2500, this ranges from 2,973 lbs to 4,413 lbs. This hefty payload allowance gives you plenty of room to transport medical equipment, patients, and emergency personnel.
The Mercedes Sprinter provides ambulance manufacturers with a sturdy commercial platform able to handle heavy loads while still meeting the power and maneuverability needs of emergency medical services. Careful load distribution is important, but the Sprinter chassis offers ample payload capacity for a fully-equipped ambulance.
## Fuel Economy
The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter ambulance offers respectable fuel economy for its size and capabilities. Here are some key details on gas mileage and tank capacity:
– **MPG estimates:** The most current Sprinter ambulance models with the 3.0L V6 turbo diesel engine deliver an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 18 MPG city and 24 MPG highway. This is quite good for a vehicle in this weight class.
– **Fuel tank capacity:** The Sprinter ambulance has a sizable 24.5 gallon fuel tank. This gives it excellent driving range when fully loaded with gas. For example, with 24.5 gallons and a 24 MPG highway estimate, it can travel approximately 588 miles between fillups on the open road. The large tank helps reduce the frequency of needed refueling stops for ambulances that cover long distances.
So while the Sprinter ambulance uses more fuel than a typical passenger van or sedan, its balance of MPG and tank size allow it to transport crews, patients, and gear efficiently without constantly running out of fuel. This supports mission-critical emergency response capabilities.
## Brakes
The Mercedes Sprinter ambulance comes equipped with a highly capable brake system designed to provide strong and consistent stopping power even when carrying a heavy load.
The brake system uses large, ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels. Disc brakes provide excellent heat dissipation and resistance to brake fade during heavy use.
The front brakes use 15-inch ventilated discs with dual-piston floating calipers. The rear brakes use 14.4-inch solid discs with single-piston floating calipers. This provides balanced and stable braking at all four corners of the vehicle.
All Sprinter ambulance models also come standard with anti-lock brakes (ABS) to prevent wheel lockup and maintain steering control during hard braking. The ABS system is tuned specifically for the unique requirements of the Sprinter van’s size and weight.
Electronic Stability Control (ESC) is another standard feature that works in conjunction with the ABS. ESC can selectively apply brakes to individual wheels and reduce engine power to help maintain control in emergency maneuvers or slippery conditions.
With its large disc brakes, ABS, and ESC, the Sprinter ambulance has the stopping power and braking control needed for safe operation even when loaded down with equipment and passengers. The robust brakes provide peace of mind for drivers in demanding conditions.
## Safety Features
The Mercedes Sprinter ambulance is designed with safety as a top priority. It comes equipped with an array of active and passive safety features to protect passengers and cargo in the event of an accident.
**Airbags**
The Sprinter ambulance has front airbags for both driver and passenger as standard equipment. Side curtain airbags are also standard, protecting occupants in the front and rear in the event of a side impact or rollover.
**Collision Avoidance Systems**
To aid the driver in avoiding accidents, Mercedes has equipped the Sprinter with several high-tech collision avoidance features. These include:
– Blind Spot Assist – alerts driver to vehicles in blind spots
– Active Brake Assist – detects impending collisions and applies brakes automatically
– Crosswind Assist – helps stabilize van in strong side winds
– Attention Assist – monitors for driver drowsiness
**Rollover Protection**
In the event of a rollover, the Sprinter ambulance’s reinforced body and pillars help maintain the integrity of the passenger cabin. This protects occupants and reduces the chance of ejection.
**Safety Ratings**
The Mercedes Sprinter achieves high safety ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS:
– NHTSA 5-star overall safety rating
– IIHS Top Safety Pick for vans
With its combination of active and passive safety systems, the Sprinter ambulance provides excellent protection for both patients and EMTs, even in the most severe accidents. Its safety features give professionals the confidence to focus on providing urgent medical care.
## Ambulance Specifics
The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is a popular choice for ambulance conversions due to its spacious interior and rugged dependability. Here are some key details about the Sprinter ambulance’s patient compartment and equipment options:
– **Patient Compartment:** The patient compartment is located behind the driver’s cab and can be outfitted with various floorplans depending on the desired layout. Typical configurations include space for a cot, medical attendant seats, and storage cabinets for equipment. The floor is flat to allow for easy loading and unloading of patients.
– **Interior Dimensions:** With the high roof option, the Sprinter ambulance interior height is approximately 6 feet 3 inches, allowing attendants ample headroom. The patient compartment floor length ranges from approximately 9.5 feet to 13 feet depending on the wheelbase.
– **Doors:** Ambulance conversions typically include rear patient access doors as well as sliding side doors for loading the cot and equipment. The rear doors open to nearly 270 degrees for unobstructed access to the patient.
– **Lighting:** LED interior lighting illuminates the patient compartment. Red/white LED warning lights on the rear provide visibility when parked.
– **Electrical:** Extra auxiliary batteries and a heavy-duty alternator provide power for onboard medical equipment and lighting. There are multiple 12V DC power outlets throughout the patient compartment.
– **Equipment Options:** Custom oxygen, suction, and ventilation equipment can be installed. Other options include medical cabinets, IV hooks, stretchers, floor lighting, and upholstery. The ambulance can also be pre-wired for radios and other communication equipment.
The Mercedes Sprinter provides an excellent platform for ambulance conversions. With multiple floorplans and equipment options available, the spacious Sprinter interior can be customized to suit the needs of EMTs and their patients.
## Pricing
The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter ambulance starts at a base MSRP of around $55,000 for the 2500 model and $60,000 for the 4500 model. These base prices are for the stripped-down cargo van without any ambulance upfits or options added.
Common ambulance options and upgrades include:
– Ambulance Package – $10,000-$15,000. Includes LED emergency lighting, sirens, PA system, emergency switch panel.
– Oxygen System – $2,000-$5,000. Medical oxygen tank, outlets and tubing.
– Cot Mount and Stretcher – $3,000-$5,000. Floor tracks and mounting hardware for stretcher.
– Cabinets and Interior Storage – $2,000-$4,000. Cabinetry for medical supplies, interior shelves and drawers.
– Power Load System – $8,000-$12,000. Power lift system for loading stretcher into ambulance.
– Auxiliary Air Conditioning – $2,000-$3,000. Extra A/C unit for patient cabin.
– Graphics Wrap – $3,000-$5,000. Reflective vinyl decals with emergency graphics.
Fully equipped, an ambulance conversion on a Sprinter can cost $80,000-$100,000 or more beyond the base van price. Popular options like a power load system and more advanced oxygen setups increase the price further.
Description
### Introduction to Mercedes as an Ambulance Manufacturer
Mercedes Ambulance; Mercedes-Benz has been a leader in ambulance manufacturing for decades. Based in Stuttgart, Germany, the company first began producing ambulances in the 1950s. Since then, Mercedes has established itself as one of the premier choices for emergency medical services (EMS) providers looking for a reliable and versatile ambulance.
There are several key reasons why Mercedes-Benz ambulances stand out:
– Long history and expertise in ambulance design – Mercedes has over 60 years of experience building ambulances optimized for emergency response needs. The company understands what paramedics and EMTs require in a patient care vehicle.
– Focus on safety and performance – Mercedes ambulance models feature the same safety innovations and engineering as Mercedes passenger vehicles. This includes impact protection, handling, and responsive drivetrains.
– Custom-built for EMS – Mercedes ambulances are designed from the ground up for EMS rather than retrofitting existing commercial vans. The Sprinter ambulance maximizes space and functionality specifically for emergency medical services.
– Industry-leading quality and durability – Mercedes are known for their excellent build quality, using high-grade materials and components. This enables Mercedes ambulances to withstand the demands of constant emergency response duty.
With this long expertise and EMS-centered design, it’s no wonder Mercedes ambulances continue to be a top choice for medical transportation across the world.
## Mercedes Sprinter Ambulances
Mercedes Ambulance; The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is one of the most popular base vehicles for building ambulance conversions. With its large cargo area, robust chassis, fuel efficiency, and safety ratings, the Sprinter makes an ideal platform for configuring and customizing ambulances.
Sprinter ambulances are available in several configurations to meet the diverse needs of EMS providers. Choices include different roof heights like standard, high, and raised; single or dual rear wheels; varying overall lengths and wheelbases. Popular setups include the Sprinter 3500 Extended, providing more interior space for storage and patient care. There’s also the 4×4 model for all-terrain capability.
Key benefits of the Sprinter ambulance include:
– Spacious interior to install the necessary medical equipment and transport crews and patients comfortably. Headroom ranges from 55 inches to 84 inches.
– Up to 6000 lbs of payload capacity and towing ability for equipment. The high-roof version offers immense cargo volume.
– Safety features like airbags, collision prevention assist, lane-keeping assist, blind spot monitoring. Provides crash protection for those on board.
– Fuel efficiency from the diesel turbo engine for lower operating costs. Can yield 20+ highway mpg.
– 4-wheel independent suspension absorbs vibration, enhances handling and ride quality over rough terrain.
– Available 4WD improves mobility in challenging road conditions like snow, mud or gravel. Critical for rural EMS needs.
– Durable body-on-frame construction with corrosion-resistant aluminum. Made for heavy daily use and long service life.
The Mercedes Sprinter ambulance offers the ideal base for building a high-performance emergency response vehicle tailored to provider specifications. Its mix of cargo capacity, reliability, efficiency and safety make it a top choice for delivering lifesaving services in diverse operating environments.
## Safety and Performance
Mercedes Sprinter ambulances are known for their safety and performance capabilities. Mercedes puts all of its Sprinter models through rigorous safety testing, with the ambulances meeting additional criteria to ensure the safety of emergency medical providers and patients.
The Sprinter ambulance achieves high safety ratings in frontal, side and rollover crash tests. It features advanced safety systems like traction control, electronic stability control, and anti-lock brakes. The body and frame are reinforced for strength and impact protection. The special ambulance lighting system improves visibility and awareness for other drivers.
Under the hood, Mercedes ambulances come equipped with a range of powerful diesel engines delivering ample horsepower and torque. Fast acceleration allows the ambulance to merge safely and navigate through traffic when responding to emergencies. The engine provides plenty of power to handle the vehicle’s weight and electrical requirements.
The suspension system is tuned for stability and a smooth ride over all types of road surfaces. The ambulance handles well at higher speeds, important for urgent transport situations. Upgraded brakes give the driver confidence in safely bringing the large vehicle to a halt. The Sprinter’s excellent handling and maneuverability provide an ideal platform for the added weight and different balance of an ambulance body.
Overall, Mercedes engineering results in an ambulance with impressive capabilities for protecting passengers while also delivering robust performance critical for medical response teams. The safety and power of the Sprinter chassis give emergency providers the tools they need to reach people in need as quickly and securely as possible.
## Interior Features
The interior of a Mercedes Sprinter ambulance is designed to provide maximum comfort, accessibility, and medical functionality. The patient compartment is spacious and optimized for ergonomics.
Key features include:
– Stretcher system that is easy to load and maneuver while providing stability and safety for the patient. Power-assisted stretcher loading is available.
– Flooring is flat and anti-slip for safety. There are tie-down points to securely fasten medical equipment.
– Ceiling height is sufficient for attendants to work with ease. Cabinets and interior shelving provide ample storage space for medical gear and supplies.
– Climate control system keeps interior at a comfortable temperature for crew and patients.
– LED lighting provides bright illumination of the cabin without glare.
– A range of seating options like attendant seats, squad bench, and fold-up seats. These allow multiple caregivers to accompany the patient.
– Oxygen and medical gas outlets are conveniently located throughout the cabin.
– State-of-the-art medical equipment like defibrillator, suction unit, and vital signs monitor can be installed.
The Mercedes Sprinter ambulance interior sets a high standard for patient care, comfort, and practicality. Every detail is meticulously designed to aid emergency medical teams in saving lives.
## Exterior Design
The exterior of Mercedes Sprinter ambulances focuses on maximizing visibility, storage, and access without compromising the iconic Mercedes styling.
– The signature Mercedes grille and badging maintain brand identity. Sleek lines and aerodynamic shaping reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency. Prominent branding ensures the vehicle is easily recognized as emergency medical transport.
– Roof-mounted LED warning lights with multiple flash patterns improve visibility and alert other drivers. Bright headlights and integrated spotlights increase nighttime illumination. Reflectors, high-visibility markings, and chevron patterns on the rear enhance conspicuity.
– Oversized panoramic mirrors give drivers exceptional rearward view. Sliding side doors and rear doors provide full walk-in access from curbside. Abundant exterior storage includes rear bumper compartments, pod boxes on the sides, and optional storage boxes above the cab. Ladder racking allows transport of backboards and equipment.
The exterior design allows Mercedes Sprinter ambulances to be highly visible and functional emergency response vehicles while maintaining the distinctive Mercedes aesthetic. Strategic lighting, storage, access, and branding optimize capabilities for medical transport.
## Customization Options
Mercedes Sprinter ambulances can be customized in numerous ways to meet the specific needs of emergency medical services (EMS) providers. Builds range from basic Type I ambulances to more advanced Type III modular units.
### Type I Ambulances
The Type I is the most basic ambulance build on the Sprinter platform. It typically features an open cabin with a walk-through to access the patient area. Basic life support equipment is installed with options for additional storage cabinets and interior lighting. These stripped down Type I units offer flexibility at a lower price point.
### Type III Ambulances
For advanced life support capabilities, the Sprinter Type III represents the top end of customization. These modular bodies allow companies like Frazer to create multi-patient or specialty vehicles. Type III features include:
– Modular exterior storage units for equipment
– Roll-in cot systems for easy loading
– Multi-tiered interiors with up to 3 patient areas
– Advanced medical technology integrations
– Customized layouts for procedures or transports
Additional options like emergency vehicle lighting, sirens, scene lights, and vehicle wraps give each Sprinter ambulance a unique personality. Mercedes collaborates directly with body manufacturers to ensure seamless integration no matter the customization level.
## Notable Customers
Mercedes Sprinter ambulances are used by major ambulance services and organizations around the world. Some of the most prominent Mercedes ambulance customers include:
– London Ambulance Service – The busiest ambulance service in the UK, covering Greater London. They have over 100 Mercedes Sprinter ambulances in their fleet.
– American Medical Response (AMR) – The largest private ambulance provider in the US. AMR utilizes Mercedes Sprinter ambulances across many of its operating areas.
– Acadian Ambulance – Serving Louisiana and Texas, Acadian is one of the major US ambulance companies using Sprinter vans.
– Abu Dhabi Police – The police force of the United Arab Emirates capital operate Mercedes Sprinter ambulances.
Mercedes Sprinter ambulances have also been used to transport VIPs and celebrities. A custom Mercedes ambulance was used by Pope Benedict XVI during visits to the UK and Germany. Tennis star Boris Becker was transported in a Mercedes ambulance after injuring his ankle during Wimbledon in 1985. During the G20 summit in London 2009, Mercedes Sprinter ambulances formed part of the motorcade to transport world leaders.
The use of Mercedes Sprinter vans by high-profile ambulance services and to transport VIPs highlights their reputation for safety, comfort and versatility.
## Manufacturing Process
Mercedes-Benz ambulances are manufactured at multiple Mercedes-Benz facilities around the world, with the majority produced at their factory in Ludwigsfelde, Germany. This state-of-the-art facility opened in 2012 and produces Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Metris vans which are then converted into ambulances by authorized body manufacturers.
The Ludwigsfelde factory has an extensive quality control program and rigorous testing procedures to ensure each van meets Mercedes-Benz’s high standards. Every Sprinter and Metris built undergoes thorough road tests, vibration tests, water testing, and more. The factory employs over 1500 highly-skilled workers who meticulously inspect each vehicle at multiple stages of the production process.
The Ludwigsfelde plant utilizes cutting-edge robotics and automation to maintain optimal efficiency while producing to Mercedes-Benz’s exacting specifications. However, skilled technicians still play a critical role, handling the intricate assembly steps that require human dexterity and discernment. The combination of technological advancements with workforce expertise enables Mercedes to achieve its quality goals.
The ambulance conversion process also involves meticulous construction and testing to guarantee optimal safety and performance. Mercedes works hand-in-hand with authorized body manufacturers, providing technical support to integrate the complex ambulance components into the base van. This partnership ensures the finished product lives up to the Mercedes name.
# Future Outlook
Mercedes is always looking to the future when it comes to their ambulance models. They aim to continue leading the industry with cutting-edge safety, technology, reliability and customization options.
Some innovative features we may see in new Sprinter ambulance models include:
– Enhanced driver assistance systems like automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, and pedestrian detection. This will further improve safety for ambulance drivers, passengers and pedestrians.
– Integrated telemedicine capabilities allowing paramedics to send vital signs and consult with doctors from the back of the ambulance. This facilitates faster and more informed care.
– Drone integration with the ambulance to deliver supplies or assess dangerous situations before EMTs enter an area. This expands capabilities while protecting personnel.
– Autonomous driving features to allow the ambulance to self-navigate to specified GPS coordinates. This would be useful for pre-programmed hospital routes and could reduce response times.
– Upgraded interior ergonomics and storage based on feedback from EMTs to maximize workflow and organization in the patient cabin.
– Alternative fuel options like electric or hydrogen fuel cell vehicles to reduce environmental impact.
Mercedes has a long history of ambulance manufacturing. Their dedication to constant improvement ensures they will continue leading the way with ambulances equipped for the future of emergency medical services. Customers can count on Mercedes to deliver the most advanced, safest and most reliable ambulances available today and tomorrow.
## Conclusion
Mercedes Sprinter ambulances have emerged as leaders in the ambulance manufacturing industry due to their combination of safety, performance, and customizability. Key points covered in this article include:
– Mercedes Sprinter vans provide a rugged and reliable platform that can be customized into high-performing ambulances. Their diesel engines deliver ample power while maintaining fuel efficiency, and their chassis offers stability and maneuverability even at high speeds or in tight spaces.
– Safety is paramount in ambulance design and Mercedes builds their Sprinter ambulances to meet or exceed rigorous safety standards. Safety features like accident avoidance systems, structured crash zones, and rollover protection ensure maximum protection for EMTs and patients.
– The interiors of Mercedes ambulances are thoughtfully laid out to provide easy access to medical equipment while giving EMTs room to administer care. Ergonomic seating, climate control, sound insulation, and entertainment options provide a comfortable environment.
– Exteriors exhibit Mercedes’ signature style while accommodating emergency lighting, sirens,scene lights and other critical emergency components. A range of lighting options are available for maximum visibility and awareness.
– Customers can select from thousands of build options to perfectly match their operational needs. Mercedes works closely with coachbuilders to accommodate specialized storage, stretcher systems, cabinetry, and electronics.
Mercedes Sprinter ambulances clearly lead the industry when it comes to the optimal balance of safety, performance, comfort and customizability. Their outstanding capabilities make them a top choice for EMTs and patients alike. As ambulances continue to evolve as compact healthcare environments, Mercedes will likely continue innovating and setting new standards.