E-mobility in the emergency services
After successful talks last year, it is clear: Flux and WAS, a leading manufacturer of special vehicles and ambulances from northern Germany, will be pulling in the same direction in the future. The goal - the development of first-class electric emergency vehicles for the rescue service for the European market and beyond.
WAS has been in possession of the Flux electric ambulance since mid-March. The vehicle was developed in Winterthur (Switzerland) and completed in Emsbüren (Germany) with the special electrically powered lightweight body from WAS. This makes the vehicle emission-free in all aspects.
"Blue light vehicles are the supreme discipline in vehicle development, because they have to be ready for use at all times under extreme conditions. This 100% reliability entails high technical requirements. This is exactly what we at Flux demand of our vehicles," emphasizes Severin Ganz, Marketing & Sales Manager at Flux Mobility.
An ambulance covers between 30,000 and 60,000 km per year. The vehicles are operated during the cold start phases of the diesel engine, which leads to increased emissions and reduced engine longevity. When a diesel engine is cold, it releases more emissions, which has a negative impact on the service life of the engine. The use of the E-RTW can save a significant amount of CO2 and thus make a major contribution to reducing emissions. Electromobility is crucial for the future of the energy sector and for achieving the targets that have been set.
"The ambulance vehicle (weight class 5.5t) must have sufficient range to cover several missions per day, even without intermediate charging. This is fulfilled with a range of around 250 km under real conditions. The ability to charge the vehicle quickly 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, Market Development Manager 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 rescue services by more than 35 European rescue organizations.
The climate control concept developed by Flux and WAS ensures an appropriate ambient temperature in the driver and passenger compartments for the 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 the air conditioning of the patient compartment and driver's cab as is necessary. Preconditioning in charging mode ensures that the patient compartment is always at the right temperature when in use. The power supply is fully guaranteed.
"We have found the ideal partner in WAS - their expertise and experience in this vehicle segment is unique in Europe. The wide range of configurations and technical features of the Flux vehicles also form the perfect basis," emphasizes Severin Ganz.
Two more fully electric ambulances will be in use at one of the largest fire departments in Germany from fall 2024. The vehicles have been equipped in such a way that, although they are electrically powered, they can be used by emergency paramedics in the usual way without compromise. With its individualized 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 bodybuilder and specialist, WAS. Christoph Stegemann explains: "When developing new technologies and drive concepts, good cooperation between the various project partners is key. The result confirms that together we were able to find an optimal solution for the customer".
Quality standards and an 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. It also produces special vehicles. The basis for this is a flexible platform concept that enables the one-to-one replacement of diesel vehicles. Flux is thus playing a key pioneering role in the sustainable transformation of industrial mobility and is helping companies to exploit the potential of electromobility. Flux Mobility's customers include several of the largest municipal companies in Switzerland as well as the first companies 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 ambulance and government vehicles. WAS is characterized by innovative technologies and tailor-made customer solutions that meet the high demands of emergency services worldwide. With a strong focus on quality, safety and customer satisfaction, WAS has earned an outstanding reputation in the industry.
