St John Ambulance has begun a pilot scheme, which will see its volunteers in the East of England respond to 999 calls using an electric BYD Sealion 7 vehicle.
As part of the six-month trial, crews will respond to medical emergencies in the fully liveried Sealion 7, which is equipped with blue lights and features 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 crews’ arrival.
The spacious interior and 520-litre boot of the vehicle will also enable the crew to carry medical supplies such as defibrillators, oxygen, airway management equipment and emergency medicines.
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.”
Tom Willis, Head of Clinical Standards for St John Ambulance, said, “The early results we are seeing are very encouraging.
“Our teams are reaching patients quickly, providing immediate care, and in some cases resolving incidents without the need for an ambulance to attend.
“That is a positive outcome both for patients and for the wider health system.
“The loan of the BYD Sealion 7 will help us use donations for life-saving interventions, rather than on rising fuel costs, helping us to run the scheme more efficiently and with greater impact.”
