Harrow residents can now expect to see a fleet of electric Mustang Mach-E cars on the streets as part of London Ambulance Service’s effort to reduce carbon emissions from its vehicles.
The iconic electric cars have been modified to suit paramedics responding to 999 emergencies in the capital, with seven units already in use and another 35 to be delivered in the coming weeks.
The move makes it the largest fully electric fleet of Fast Response Units in the UK and comes as part of a wider £31 million investment programme that includes investing in charging infrastructure across LAS sites and ambulance stations.
The Mustangs take only 40 minutes to charge to 80% battery capacity, and they can travel more than 300 miles on a single charge, which is ten times farther than a regular ambulance would cover on a shift. This means they can respond to emergencies in Harrow and surrounding areas without having to worry about running out of power.
Additionally, the Mustangs are equipped with a Crew Safety System that includes video cameras, panic buttons, and electronic tracking to keep clinicians safe. The blue lights and sirens are powered by a separate 12-volt battery, and the Service is fitting solar panels to the cars to make them even more environmentally friendly.
Daniel Elkeles, Chief Executive of London Ambulance Service, said, “I’m very proud we have the biggest electric fleet of fast response cars in the country and can contribute to reaching net zero. Having cleaner and greener vehicles is extremely important in improving air quality – not just for our people and our patients – but also for the health of our communities across London.”
The introduction of the new electric fleet is expected to benefit the Harrow community by improving air quality, contributing to reaching net-zero emissions and reducing noise pollution. The Service’s investment in Harrow’s charging infrastructure also reflects its commitment to the borough and the surrounding areas.
London Ambulance Service also introduced three electric motorcycles to its fleet last year and will roll out four fully electric ambulances in August. The Service also has ten London Electric Vehicle Company electric vehicles used for teaching first aid and 18 hybrid vans and 13 plug-in hybrid cars.
