Who Manufactures Ambulances; The ambulance manufacturing industry plays a critical role in healthcare and emergency response systems around the world. Ambulances transport patients safely and efficiently to receive medical care. The companies that design and build these specialized vehicles must adhere to stringent regulations and standards.

There are a handful of major manufacturers that dominate ambulance production globally. However, there is also a subset of smaller custom coach builders that convert standard vehicles into ambulances. The needs and regulations vary by region, resulting in different common ambulance types used in different countries.

Ambulance manufacturers must balance safety, medical functionality, and practical operation. Vehicles are customized to client specifications while meeting local and national requirements. Purchasing ambulances involves considerable research and planning for both public and private sector buyers. Costs can range dramatically based on the size, features, and customizations.

In this article, we will explore the key players manufacturing ambulances worldwide. We’ll look at the different ambulance classifications, typical specifications, safety testing, and purchasing considerations. The ambulance industry aims to continue improving and innovating vehicles to provide the best possible emergency medical transport.

Major Ambulance Manufacturers

Some of the major ambulance manufacturers in the world include:

• Ford Motor Company – Ford is one of the largest ambulance manufacturers globally. They offer different types of ambulances like the Ford E-Series and Ford Transit. Ford has decades of experience building ambulances and works with coach builders to customize them.
• Mercedes-Benz – Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vans are a popular choice for ambulance conversions. The Sprinter chassis combined with a custom coach offers great versatility. Mercedes-Benz works closely with coach builders to build customized ambulances.
• General Motors – GM produces ambulance models based on their Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana full-size vans. These are an affordable option built on a reliable commercial chassis and are used by many emergency medical services.
• Ram Commercial – Ram ProMaster vans are increasingly used as the base for ambulance conversions. The ProMaster chassis combined with an integrated patient compartment makes for a versatile ambulance.
• Nissan Motor Corporation – Nissan commercial vans like the NV Series are built with ambulance conversion in mind. Nissan works with qualified vehicle modifiers to build customized ambulances.
• Toyota Motor Corporation – Toyota Siennas are a popular minivan platform used by many ambulance manufacturers. The reliability and roominess make them well-suited for this purpose.

Custom Coach Builders

Custom coach builders are smaller companies that specialize in outfitting vans, trucks, and chassis into customized ambulances and emergency vehicles. Unlike major manufacturers, they typically do not produce their own vehicles from the ground up. Instead, they purchase base vehicles from automakers and then fully customize them to meet the specialized needs of EMS and fire departments.

Some of the most well-known custom coach builders in the ambulance industry include Horton, Road Rescue, Wheeled Coach, Marque, McCoy Miller, Braun, and Frazer. These companies take vehicles like the Ford Transit, Mercedes Sprinter, and Chevrolet Express and outfit them with the necessary emergency medical equipment, storage compartments, lighting, sirens, stretchers, and other specialized amenities required for ambulances and paramedic response vehicles.

The custom coach building process allows smaller manufacturers to cater to the specific needs of their customers. EMS providers can choose a preferred make and model of vehicle, then work with the coach builder to customize the interior and equipment to their exact specifications. This flexible process allows for ambulances of all types and sizes to be created, from small Ford Transit vans for tight urban areas to large walk-in trucks capable of transporting multiple patients.

Overall, custom coach builders fill an important niche in the ambulance manufacturing industry by providing specialized, customized vehicles for EMS providers rather than one-size-fits-all factory models. Their flexibility and customization capabilities allow them to tailor vehicles precisely to the needs of their customers.

Ambulance Types

There are several types of ambulances that serve different purposes. The main categories are:

Type I Ambulance

Type I ambulances are based on a van chassis and are the most commonly used for emergency medical services. They typically feature a modular body and higher ground clearance. Some key features of Type I models include:

• Van chassis (Ford, Chevy, Dodge, etc.)
• Modular body construction
• Higher ground clearance
• Emergency lights and sirens
• Range of medical equipment like stretcher, oxygen, defibrillator, etc.

Type I models are ideal for multi-purpose emergency transportation and paramedic services. They offer flexibility in moving patients from tight urban settings to more rural areas.

Type II Ambulance

Type II models are based on a standard van chassis but have a slightly raised roof. They are smaller and more maneuverable than the Type I, while still providing essential medical equipment. Key attributes include:

• Standard full-size van chassis
• Raised roof for headroom
• Good access and maneuverability
• Medical equipment like stretcher, radios, oxygen, etc.

Type II ambulances work well for low-acuity medical transportation and support services. Their smaller size and familiar chassis makes them easy to drive and operate.

Type III Ambulance

Type III ambulances are built on a cutaway van chassis with a custom rear module body. They are larger than Type II models and have more space for additional gear. Features of Type III ambulances are:

• Cutaway van chassis (Ford, Chevy, Dodge)
• Custom module body construction
• Increased interior headroom and storage
• Advanced medical devices like EKG machines, ventilators, etc.

Type III models are well-suited for advanced life support services and critical patient transports over long distances. Their customized rear provides expanded capacity for equipment and caregivers.

Ambulance Specifications

Ambulances contain specialized medical equipment and technology to assist EMTs and paramedics in providing medical care. Here are some of the key specifications and features found inside an ambulance:

Patient Compartment

• Stretcher – A powered cot and stretcher for transporting patients. These are adjustable, allow EMTs to raise and lower patients, and lock into place during transport.
• Medical equipment – Oxygen tanks, suction units, cardiac monitors, ventilators to assist breathing, IV poles, and more. These provide critical tools for stabilizing and treating patients.
• Cabinets & storage – Cabinets, drawers, and compartments to organize supplies and medications. Interior is designed for easy access.
• Seating – Bench seating along sides for EMTs to sit and monitor patients. May include integrated seat belts.
• Lighting – Bright interior lighting and scene lights for loading patients at night.

Technology/Electronics

• Radio communication – Radio system to communicate with dispatch and the hospital. Allows coordination of the emergency response.
• Computers – On-board computer for records, ePCR software, and navigation. Provides patient information.
• Cameras – Some ambulances have cameras to capture and document the scene and patient’s status.
• Warning lights & sirens – Emergency lights and sirens to clear traffic and safely transport patients to the hospital.

Driver Compartment

• Ergonomic driver seat – Adjustable seat for driver comfort during long transports.
• Navigation – GPS navigation to provide directions and fastest route to the scene or hospital.
• Backup camera – Provides view behind ambulance for safety when reversing.
• Climate control – Controls temperature and environment for driver and patient area.

The interior contains many customized features focused on providing medical care, safely transporting patients, and allowing EMTs/paramedics to do their job effectively. Manufacturers collaborate with EMTs and medical experts when designing and building ambulances.

Safety Standards

Ambulances must meet strict federal safety standards in order to be used for emergency medical services in the United States. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) sets the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) that ambulances must comply with. Some key regulations include:

• Crash Testing – Ambulances must pass rigorous crash testing to ensure they provide adequate protection for occupants in the event of an accident. Tests evaluate the vehicle structure, seating, patient restraints, equipment mounts, and more.
• Patient Compartment Access – There are requirements for ambulance patient compartment dimensions and access points to facilitate loading and unloading patients on stretchers.
• Emergency Lighting – Specific colored lighting (red, white, amber) must be present and visible from multiple angles on the ambulance exterior. Interior lighting levels are also regulated.
• Electrical Systems – Electrical wiring and equipment must be properly shielded and grounded. Backup lighting and power systems are mandatory in case of electrical failure.
• Patient Restraints – Special anchorages must be provided to securely fasten patient stretchers and mobility aids. Patient restraint belts are also required.
• Oxygen Systems – Onboard oxygen tanks, piping, outlets, and other equipment must meet stringent safety standards to prevent leaks and explosions.
• Flammability – Interior materials must demonstrate flame resistance and low flammability.
• Communications Equipment – Two-way radios, public address systems, and other communications gear must be tested for safety and functionality.

In addition to federal standards, many states have their own regulations for ambulance safety. Manufacturers conduct extensive testing to certify their vehicles meet all required standards before they can be sold and operated.

Purchasing Process

Ambulance services purchase new vehicles in a few different ways. Many municipal services that are run by local governments go through a public bidding process when they need new ambulances. They will put out a request for proposals (RFP) that specifies the type of vehicle they need and the required specifications. Ambulance manufacturers and vendors will then submit bids to try and win the contract. The bidding is usually awarded based on a combination of meeting the required specifications, pricing, and other factors like warranty and service.

Other ambulance services that are privately run or part of hospital systems often work directly with manufacturers and vendors to spec out and order new vehicles. They are not required to go through a public bidding process. In these cases, they will research different makes and models, get quotes from vendors, and make their purchasing decision based on their specific needs and budget. Leasing ambulances is also an option that some services utilize rather than purchasing vehicles outright.

No matter the purchasing process, ambulance services have to carefully evaluate their needs in terms of vehicle type, size, configuration, options, and equipment. Purchasing ambulances requires significant capital expenditures so the decision involves research, planning, and budgeting to acquire optimal vehicles for emergency medical services. Proper specifications and vendor selection helps maximize patient care capabilities and the lifespan of the vehicles.

Who Manufactures Ambulances Costs

The cost of an ambulance can vary greatly depending on the type, size, features, and customization. Here’s an overview of ambulance pricing:

New Ambulances

• Type I/Type III ambulances typically range from $60,000 to $250,000.
• Type II van conversions usually cost $50,000 to $110,000.
• Prices tend to be on the higher end for larger, more equipped ambulances.

Used Ambulances

• Used Type I and Type III ambulances are usually priced from $15,000 to $60,000 depending on age, mileage, condition, and features.
• Used Type II ambulances typically cost $10,000 to $40,000.
• Older, high mileage ambulances can sometimes be found for under $10,000.

Additional Costs

On top of the vehicle itself, purchasers need to budget for:

• Shipping if bought out of area
• Registration, taxes, insurance
• Any desired graphics/lettering
• Additional emergency equipment
• Ongoing maintenance and repairs

When buying a used ambulance, inspection for mechanical issues is highly recommended. Overall, purchasing an ambulance represents a significant investment for any organization. Careful research, planning, and budgeting is advised to find the right ambulance at a reasonable price.

Who Manufactures Ambulances Future Trends

The ambulance industry is always innovating and adopting new technologies to improve emergency medical services. Here are some key trends and innovations to expect in the future:

Electric and Hybrid Ambulances

Several companies are developing electric and hybrid electric ambulances. These utilize battery power to reduce emissions, noise, and fuel costs compared to traditional diesel ambulances. For example, Braun Industries and Frazer have introduced hybrid ambulances, while REV Group is testing fully electric models. Electric ambulances can also power medical equipment through onboard batteries.

Autonomous Driving Features

Ambulances are prime candidates for autonomous driving capabilities like automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. These features improve safety and reduce driver workload. ZF Friedrichshafen has developed an automated driving system optimized for ambulances. More ambulance makers may add autonomous tech in the future.

Connected Vehicle Technologies

Connected tech allows ambulances to communicate with infrastructure, other vehicles, and dispatch centers. This enables features like traffic signal priority to clear intersections faster. Real-time ambulance tracking and turn-by-turn routing to hospitals can also improve response efficiency.

Drone Integration

Some companies are piloting the use of drones to complement ambulances. Drones can quickly deliver small emergency equipment to patients in hard-to-reach locations. In the future, drones may be deployed from ambulances to assess accidents and disaster sites so responders have more information before arriving.

Telemedicine Capabilities

Many ambulances now have equipment for paramedics to consult remotely with doctors while treating patients en route to the hospital. As telemedicine improves, ambulances may add capabilities like live video streaming from the back of the ambulance. This allows emergency room physicians to oversee and advise paramedics during transport.

Who Manufactures Ambulances Conclusion

Ambulance manufacturing is a complex industry that plays a critical role in emergency medical services. Though there are only a handful of major ambulance manufacturers, the field also consists of many custom coach builders that construct ambulances to client specifications. The most common ambulance types are vans and modular bodies on truck chassis, which have evolved over time to optimize patient care and safety.

Ambulances are highly customized vehicles that must adhere to strict design standards and outfitting requirements. Key specifications relate to the patient compartment, storage, electrical system, and safety features. To ensure quality and safety, ambulances sold in the United States must meet KKK standards issued by the General Services Administration.

Purchasing ambulances involves decisions around make and model, outfitting packages, and budget. Prices can range from around $60,000 for a basic van up to $250,000 for a specialized critical care transport unit. Looking ahead, ambulance manufacturers continue to innovate with new technology, more sustainable vehicles, and designs tailored to evolving EMS needs and protocols.

Overall, ambulance manufacturing integrates automotive engineering with customized design to produce essential emergency response vehicles. Though complex, these vital industries help save lives through quality, safety-focused products.

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