St John Ambulance has started a trial scheme, which will see its volunteers in the East of England respond to 999 calls using a fully liveried electric BYD Sealion 7.
Under the six-month pilot, crews will respond to medical emergencies in the vehicle, which is fitted with blue lights and includes a 530PS twin-motor powertrain and 312-mile electric range.
Working alongside the East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust (EEAST), the project will provide clinical assessment and life-saving aid in advance of ambulance crew arrival.
The spacious interior and 520-litre boot will also enable the crew to carry medical supplies such as defibrillators, oxygen, airway management equipment and emergency medicines.
The aim of the pilot is to measure system impact and patient outcomes in the Norfolk region, with a view to potentially expanding the scheme across other regions of England.
Also, it offers the potential to ease pressure on frontline ambulance services.
St John Ambulance provides its services to the NHS free of charge and relies on public support, partnerships and donations to sustain its work in communities across the country.
Jeanette Griggs, National Corporate & Public Sector Manager at BYD UK, said: “The vital work St John Ambulance carries out in communities across the country saves lives, and we believe the Sealion 7’s fully electric performance, impressive range and practical cabin make it ideally suited to support their co-responders.
“We’re excited to see the positive impact this trial will have for St John Ambulance and the communities they serve.”
