E-mobility in emergency medical services
Following successful discussions last year, it's confirmed that Flux and WAS, a leading manufacturer of special vehicles and ambulances from Northern Germany, will be working together in the future. The goal is to develop first-class electric emergency vehicles for the emergency medical services for the European market and beyond.
Since mid-March, WAS has been in possession of the electric ambulance from Flux. The vehicle was developed in Winterthur (Switzerland) and completed in Emsbüren (Germany) with the special lightweight body from WAS, which is also electrically powered. This makes the vehicle emission-free in all aspects.
"Emergency vehicles are the supreme discipline in vehicle development, as they must be ready for use at all times under extreme conditions. This 100% reliability entails high technical requirements. This is exactly the standard we at Flux have for our vehicles," emphasizes Severin Ganz, Head of Marketing & Sales at Flux Mobility.
An ambulance travels between 30,000 and 60,000 km per year. The vehicles are operated in the cold start phases of the diesel engine, which leads to increased emissions and reduced engine life. When a diesel engine is cold, it releases more emissions, which negatively affects the engine's lifespan. The use of the electric ambulance can save a significant amount of CO2 and thus make a significant contribution to reducing emissions. Electromobility is crucial for the future of the energy sector and for achieving set targets.
"The ambulance (weight class 5.5t) must have a sufficient range to be able to cover several missions per day, even without intermediate charging. This is fulfilled with a range of around 250 km under real conditions. The possibility of quickly charging the vehicle in a short time is also relevant. The high acceleration values and a top speed of 120 km/h round off the powerful and reliable technology," says Christoph Stegemann, Head of Market Development at WAS.
Ambulances are often used under high loads. To ensure the highest safety standards, the battery unit is tested under extreme conditions. The Flux vehicles have already proven themselves over a distance of almost 250,000 kilometers. The body has also been tested and further developed in regular emergency services by more than 35 European rescue organizations.
The climate concept developed by Flux and WAS ensures an appropriate ambient temperature in the driver's and passenger compartments for doctors and patients as well as the sensitive equipment, regardless of the weather. The fully integrated HV air conditioning components in combination with complex control algorithms ensure that only as much energy is used for air conditioning the patient compartment and driver's cab as is necessary. Preconditioning in charging mode ensures that the patient compartment is always at the correct temperature in the event of an emergency. The power supply is fully guaranteed.
"With WAS, we have found the ideal partner – their expertise and experience in this vehicle segment is unique in Europe. The high configuration diversity and technical performance characteristics of the Flux vehicles also form the perfect basis," emphasizes Severin Ganz.
Two further fully electric ambulances will be in use at one of the largest fire departments in Germany from autumn 2024. The vehicles have been equipped in such a way that, although they are electrically operated, they can be used by paramedics to the usual extent without compromise. With its customized solutions, Flux enables a seamless transition to emission-free mobility while ensuring safety. The vehicles were developed together with the customer in close cooperation with the body manufacturer and specialist, WAS. Christoph Stegemann says, "When developing new technologies and drive concepts, good cooperation between the various project partners is essential. The result confirms that together we were able to find an optimal solution for the customer."
The quality standard and the understanding of innovation are in the DNA of both companies. This is a promising starting point for a successful partnership. In addition, both parties will be able to strengthen their presence in each other's home markets.
Flux Mobility AG, founded in April 2021 and based in Winterthur (Switzerland), develops high-quality light commercial vehicles with innovative, emission-free drive technologies. Special vehicles are also produced. The basis is a flexible platform concept that allows the one-to-one replacement of diesel vehicles. Flux is thus taking on a key pioneering role in the sustainable transformation of industrial mobility and supporting companies in harnessing the potential of electromobility. Flux Mobility's customers include several of Switzerland's largest municipal utilities and initial operations in Germany.
Wietmarscher Ambulanz- und Sonderfahrzeug GmbH (WAS) is a leading manufacturer of special vehicles based in Emsbüren, Germany. Founded in 1987, the company specializes in the development and production of ambulances and public authority vehicles. WAS is characterized by innovative technologies and customized customer solutions that meet the high demands of rescue services worldwide. With a strong focus on quality, safety and customer satisfaction, WAS has earned an outstanding reputation in the industry.
