East Midlands Ambulance Service has added Škoda’s fully electric Enyaq SUV to provide zero-emission rapid response support.

Škoda’s fully electric Enyaq SUV provides zero-emission rapid response support

It’s now running two Enyaq 80 models following a successful trial period to evaluate the car’s suitability for blue-light duty.

The Enyaqs were chosen for their sustainability, zero-emissions, range and practicality. The rapid response fleet is in high demand with the Trust on average receiving a 999 call every 25 seconds.

The ambulance service trialled the Enyaq in late 2022 and invited the ambulance crew to provide their feedback, ensuring they met the needs of the driver. The cars were then fully converted and immediately put into service.

Thanks to its interior space and capacious boot, the Enyaq is able to easily accommodate the equipment, supplies and medication required for first responders. Modifications have been made to the car to optimise range, and include lower consumption LED lighting, reduced-drag light bars and lightweight interior fittings.

Other benefits of the rear-wheel drive Enyaqs include a near 50:50 weight distribution, low centre of gravity and turning circle of just 9.3m, while the electric motor’s 310Nm of torque is available instantly and the car will accelerate to 62mph in 8.2 seconds and reach a top speed of 99mph.

The new arrivals join the existing fleet of Škoda Octavia Scout models.

Andy Watson, fleet assistant general manager at East Midlands Ambulance Service, said: “We are always looking to improve the quality of our vehicles for our patients and our staff by constantly listening to valuable feedback. As part of this, we invited colleagues to review the three design prototype models, getting them to share their honest feedback before we proceeded with the conversion of the vehicles. Safety, comfort and practicality are our main priorities for both staff and patients alike.”

The Enyaq is available to blue light fleets via Škoda’s bespoke emergency service convertors, who can fully integrate emergency services’ communications platforms within the existing infotainment touchscreen and 360-degree lighting. Individual customer conversion requirements can also be catered for with Škoda’s approved specialist convertors.