PROJECT NAME: Electric Dual Crewed Ambulance (E-DCA)
PARTNERS: Promech Technologies / VCS / West Mids Ambulance Service
BRIEF: Launch of UK’s full-electric first panel van ambulance conversion
CORE COMPETENCIES: Lightweighting / electric powertrain integration / partnerships

Promech’s substantial involvement in the long-term development of the UK’s first-panel van ambulance conversion brought the company’s partnership credentials to the fore. Working in close collaboration with the UK’s leading ambulance trust, West Midlands Ambulance Service, Promech enabled sister company, VCS, to launch its Electric Dual Crewed Ambulance (E-DCA) in a trial to assess key development areas for electrified ambulances in the future.

A key element in the development of the E-DCA for Promech was ensuring that the all-electric powertrain could offer the reliability, versatility, and longevity necessary for a front-line ambulance. Together, the Promech and VCS technical engineering teams set about re-evaluating many aspects of the powertrain, none more so than packaging. Due to the way front-line ambulances are used, a low centre of mass is essential, achieved by repackaging the batteries into the vehicle floor of the vehicle. An innovative ‘Core Capture’ construction method helped deliver a 4.6-tonne GVW conversion, despite accommodating a heavier powertrain. The E-DCA also features additional equipment, such as ultra-low profile emergency lighting assemblies, a unique rear-door damp assist system (DAS), hospital chair gangway accessibility, intelligent run lock management, and an OLED graphical HMI keypad.