## Introduction
The Ford Transit ambulance is designed and built specifically for emergency medical services (EMS). Based on the versatile Ford Transit commercial van platform, the Ford Transit ambulance is optimised for the unique demands of EMS duty.
This purpose-built ambulance provides exceptional ergonomics, ease of access, and capacious storage for medical equipment and supplies. The interior layout is thoughtfully configured for effective patient care and transport. The vehicle architecture readily accommodates the installation of the necessary emergency medical equipment and technology.
The Ford Transit ambulance delivers exceptional drivability and manoeuvrability thanks to its car-like handling and tight turning radius. This enables rapid response and smooth transportation for patients. Robust underbody construction and upgraded suspension provide a stable ambulance platform for EMTs to safely deliver critical care on the move.
With its balance of versatility, efficiency, and capability, the Ford Transit has become a fixture of EMS fleets across North America. This guide provides a detailed overview of the key features and components of the Ford Transit ambulance.
## Exterior
The Ford Transit Ambulance comes standard as a white vehicle to allow for high visibility, though several paint color options are available. Customers can choose a single base color or a two-tone configuration. Popular ambulance exterior color choices beyond white include:
– Red – Provides a striking visual presence and association with emergency medical services. Often used for fire department ambulances.
– Yellow – Also offers high visibility. Sometimes used for private ambulance services.
– Blue – Used by some police and government agencies. Blue lighting may be restricted in some areas.
– Green – Less common but occasionally seen on military and government ambulances.
– Black – More understated but still authoritative. Sometimes used for private ambulance fleets.
The Ford Transit Ambulance has several emergency lighting packages available from the factory. These include LED lightbars, front grille lights, intersection lights, alley lights, and scene lights. Additional hazardous warning lights can be installed after-market as well.
Custom vinyl lettering and graphics packages help identify the ambulance service. These visual identifiers are applied to the sides, rear, and hood of the vehicle. Common design elements include the service name, logo, license number, website, and emergency contact information.
## Patient Compartment
The patient compartment in a Ford Transit ambulance provides a functional workspace for EMTs to provide medical care. Key features include:
– **Dimensions:** The patient compartment is approximately 10 feet long, 5.5 feet wide, and 4.5 feet high. This provides adequate room for a stretcher, medical equipment, and 1-2 EMTs to access the patient.
– **Flooring:** The floor is covered in commercial-grade vinyl with a non-slip surface. This is durable, easy to clean, and safe for EMTs.
– **Cabinetry:** Cabinets along the walls provide storage for medical supplies and equipment. They are made of lightweight materials like aluminum and equipped with positive latches to stay securely closed during transport.
– **Seating:** An integrated bench seat with seatbelts allows an EMT to sit near the patient’s head to monitor care. The seat folds up when not needed to save space.
The patient compartment layout maximizes functionality and safety. Strategic placement of features like cabinetry, seating, and equipment mounting optimize workflow for EMTs administering care in the confined space during transport to the hospital.
## Medical Equipment
The Ford Transit Ambulance comes equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment to provide emergency medical services in the field.
### Stretcher
A power stretcher is installed in the patient compartment area to securely transport patients. The stretcher can be easily loaded and unloaded from the ambulance through the side door, and features adjustable height levels and tilting capability. Advanced models have a powered lift system for smooth raising and lowering of the patient.
### Oxygen Delivery
Oxygen tanks and outlets are mounted in the ambulance to provide supplemental oxygen to patients. Tanks are securely stored, while adjustable wall outlets and portable oxygen cylinders allow oxygen to be administered during transport. Flow meters and regulators control oxygen delivery.
### Suction Unit
A portable suction unit removes fluids and provides suction during patient care. The suction can be battery powered for use inside and outside the vehicle. Tubing, canisters, and other accessories are included.
### IV Poles
Retractable ceiling-mounted IV poles hold bags of fluids for intravenous access during transport. Multiple fold-down IV poles positioned near the patient area provide easy accessibility.
### AED
An automated external defibrillator (AED) delivers an electric shock in a life-threatening emergency to restore normal heart rhythm. The ambulance carries at least one AED for cardiac arrests.
## Electrical System
The Ford Transit ambulance has a robust electrical system to power all of the specialized equipment needed for emergency medical services.
### Backup Camera
A backup camera comes standard on the Transit ambulance to aid in safe reverse driving and parking. The camera displays a live color image on the dash screen and provides visual and audible alerts when objects are detected behind the vehicle. This aids the driver when maneuvering in tight spaces.
### Scene Lights
Bright LED scene lights are mounted on the exterior to illuminate the area around the patient compartment at a scene. These high-intensity lights allow EMTs to see clearly when loading or unloading a patient at night.
### Sirens
Dual 100-watt sirens provide 360 degrees of audible warning for traffic clearing. These sirens meet or exceed all state and federal requirements for emergency vehicle siren output.
### Auxiliary Power
A secondary alternator provides extended electrical power for emergency equipment even when the engine is off. This auxiliary power system includes dual batteries to run lights, radios, and other electronics without draining the chassis battery. There are also multiple 12V DC outlets in the patient area.
## Climate Control
A properly functioning climate control system is critical in an ambulance, as patient and provider comfort and safety depend on it. The climate control system in a Ford Transit ambulance includes both heating and air conditioning components.
### Air Conditioning
The AC system uses a high-capacity compressor and evaporator coil to provide ample cooling for the patient compartment even on hot days. Ducts distribute cooled air throughout the interior. There are separate temperature controls for the driver and patient areas so each can be optimized.
### Heating System
An engine-fed heater core and fan deliver warm air to the ambulance interior. Like the AC, there are separate controls for front and rear. Fast heating is important so patients do not get chilled.
### Ventilation
Proper ventilation prevents the buildup of odors and bio-contaminants that could impact patient care. Roof-mounted air intake and exhaust vents exchange air. Opening side windows or doors provides additional ventilation when needed.
## Communications
The communications system in a Ford Transit ambulance allows crews to stay connected to dispatch, hospitals, and other emergency responders while on a call.
The standard ambulance radio is a Motorola model designed specifically for EMS use. It operates on the designated medical frequencies and includes emergency call and dispatch features. The radio is mounted in the cab within easy reach of the driver compartment.
Some ambulances also contain a laptop which integrates with the radios and allows access to the CAD (computer-aided dispatch) system. This provides navigational assistance while responding to calls. Tablet devices may also be mounted in the patient compartment to look up medications, protocols, or patient data.
Several antenna mounts are positioned on the roof to connect with radio repeaters and cellular networks. A standard configuration contains a VHF radio antenna, a UHF radio antenna, a WiFi antenna, and a cellular modem antenna. The multiple antennas ensure a continuous connection.
The ambulance is also outfitted with a public address system utilizing exterior mounted speakers. This allows crews to make announcements to bystanders outside the vehicle. Siren and lighting controls are located in the cab.
Overall the communications package allows EMTs and paramedics to coordinate response activities and access critical information while delivering patient care. The systems are thoughtfully designed, integrated, and positioned for both in-transit and on-scene use during emergency response.
## Safety Features
The Ford Transit ambulance is designed with safety as a top priority. Ford conducts extensive crash testing on the Transit to ensure it meets or exceeds federal safety standards.
### Crash Testing
The Transit ambulance body undergoes rigorous crash testing to evaluate roof strength, seat strength, equipment mounting, and occupant protection. Testing is conducted withoccupied seats and equipment loaded to simulate real-world conditions. The ambulance structure is certified by Ford to meet or exceed the following safety standards:
– FMVSS 207/210 – Seat belt anchorages
– FMVSS 208 – Occupant crash protection
– FMVSS 210 – Seat belt assembly anchorages
– FMVSS 219 – Windshield zone intrusion
– FMVSS 220 – School bus rollover protection
– FMVSS 221 – School bus body joint strength
– KKK-A-1822F – Ambulance certification standard
### Driver Aids
The Transit ambulance comes equipped with advanced driver assistance features to help prevent accidents and improve safety. Key features include:
– AdvanceTrac® with Roll Stability Control – Helps maintain control in emergency maneuvers
– Curve Control – Automatically slows the vehicle when taking curves too fast
– Lane-Keeping System – Alerts driver and applies steering torque if drifting out of lane
– Auto high-beam headlamps – Automatically switch between high and low beams
– Pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking – Can detect pedestrians and automatically apply brakes to prevent collisions
### Restraints
All seating positions in the Transit ambulance are equipped with 3-point seat belts and advanced airbags, including:
– Driver and passenger front airbags
– Front seat-mounted side airbags
– Side curtain airbags for all outboard positions
– AdvanceAnchor tether anchors – Allows securing of forward-facing child seats
– LATCH lower anchors – Allows securing of compatible child seats without seat belts
These safety features help protect occupants and minimize injuries in the event of an accident.
## Maintenance
To keep a Ford Transit ambulance in optimal working condition, maintaining the vehicle according to the manufacturer’s recommendations is essential. This involves adhering to scheduled service intervals, performing routine equipment checks, and proper cleaning and sanitization procedures.
**Scheduled Maintenance**
The Ford Transit ambulance requires oil changes, fluid checks, tire rotations, and other preventative maintenance based on mileage intervals recommended in the owner’s manual. Replacing air and fuel filters at appropriate service intervals is also important. Failures to follow the scheduled maintenance plan can lead to breakdowns or unsafe conditions.
**Equipment Checks**
Medical equipment in the ambulance must be inspected on a regular basis to ensure proper functionality. This includes checking that all monitors, ventilators, suction units, stretchers, cabinets, oxygen tanks, and other critical components are in good working order. Conducting equipment inspections on a weekly basis is recommended.
**Sanitization**
Thorough cleaning and disinfection helps prevent the spread of infectious diseases. All surfaces in the ambulance patient compartment should be wiped down and sanitized after each transport when possible. Pay close attention to high-touch areas like stretchers, rails, cabinets, floors, walls, and doors. Only hospital-grade disinfectants and sanitizers should be used. Proper PPE during cleaning is also essential.
Following the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule, performing routine equipment checks, and using rigorous sanitization procedures will help keep a Ford Transit ambulance in excellent condition for emergency medical services. Proper maintenance maximizes the vehicle’s lifespan while ensuring the highest levels of safety and reliability.
## Conclusion
The Ford Transit provides a versatile, reliable and economical platform for an ambulance configuration. With multiple roof heights, lengths, and powertrain options, the Transit can be customized to meet specific operational requirements. The open cabin design allows efficient access between the driver and patient compartments, while the European-style body provides ample headroom and cabinet storage space.
Ford utilises high-strength steel in the Transit’s body construction for safety and durability. Large rear door openings allow patients to be easily loaded on a stretcher, and the low floor height makes access ramps unnecessary. The available EcoBoost turbocharged engines deliver ample power while maximising fuel economy.
When outfitted by a professional ambulance manufacturer, the Transit can be equipped with state-of-the-art medical devices, communication systems and emergency lighting. Industry-leading manufacturers have validated the Transit ambulance design through rigorous testing procedures. With proper maintenance and care, a Ford Transit ambulance can provide many years of reliable service.
Overall, with its purpose-built design, customization potential, and global service network, the Ford Transit represents an optimal choice as an emergency medical services vehicle.
Description
Ford Transit Ambulance is one of the most popular vans for ambulance conversion. With its spacious interior, variety of body configurations, and fuel efficient engine options, the Transit makes an ideal emergency response vehicle.
Ford offers the Transit ambulance through their Qualified Vehicle Modifiers program. This allows approved upfitters to convert the vans into ambulances that meet stringent safety and design regulations. Once converted, the Transit ambulance delivers high performance capability in a versatile and reliable package.
As an ambulance, the Transit provides ample room for transporting patients and storing medical equipment. The high roof option maximizes headroom for attendants providing care inside the vehicle. Large sliding side doors allow for easy loading and unloading of the patient cot. The modular interior can also be customized to fit the needs of individual emergency medical services.
Ford backs the Transit ambulance with a standard 5 year/60,000 mile powertrain warranty. This provides ambulance fleets with the peace of mind that comes with Ford reliability and service. With robust construction and modern features, the Transit ambulance is built Ford tough for the demands of emergency response.
Body Styles
The Ford Transit is available in multiple body styles that can be utilized for ambulance conversions. The most common configurations are:
Low Roof Van– This standard roof Transit has a total height of 82 inches. The low roof provides a smaller overall footprint while still giving sufficient headroom inside. Low roof vans are ideal for Type II ambulances.
Medium Roof Van– For a bit more interior space, the medium roof Transit has a height of 100 inches. Medium roofs allow walking fully upright inside and work well for Type I and Type III ambulances.
High Roof Van– The high roof option maximizes the usable interior height at 110 inches. High roof Transits offer the most headroom and space for loading patients and equipment. These make ideal Type I ambulances.
Chassis Cab– For box-style Type I ambulances, the Transit chassis cab provides an open frame behind the cab to mount a custom ambulance module. Lengths range from 138 inches up to 264 inches.
Cutaway– The Transit cutaway includes the cab section with a short frame behind it. The wheelbase ranges from 138-156 inches. Type II and Type III boxes can be mounted to the cutaway.
In terms of dimensions, the overall Transit length ranges from 202 inches up to 266 inches depending on the wheelbase. Maximum width is 81.5 inches and width between wheel wells is 51 inches. Understanding the available body styles and dimensions allows buyers to select the best Transit configuration for their ambulance needs.
Engine Options
The Ford Transit is available with several engine options designed to suit the needs of ambulance conversion companies and emergency medical services.
For gasoline engines, Ford offers the 3.5L PFDI V6 engine producing 275 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides ample power for ambulance conversions while delivering respectable fuel economy.
For even greater fuel efficiency, Ford also offers the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 gasoline engine. This twin-turbocharged engine generates 310 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. The EcoBoost technology allows this engine to deliver the power of a V8 with the fuel economy of a V6.
On the diesel side, the Transit is available with a 3.2L Power Stroke 5-cylinder diesel engine. This engine generates 185 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. The Power Stroke is designed for smooth, quiet operation and longevity. Its high torque output makes it well-suited for ambulance duty.
For maximum capability, Ford offers the 3.5L Power Stroke V6 turbocharged diesel. It produces 310 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. This state-of-the-art diesel combines robust low-end power with impressive fuel efficiency. It provides the ideal blend of performance and economy for ambulance conversions.
With this range of modern gas and diesel engines, the Ford Transit can be equipped to meet the needs of any ambulance service. Fleet managers can select the ideal powertrain to suit their performance requirements and budget priorities.
Transmission
The Ford Transit Ambulance comes standard with a 6-speed SelectShift® automatic transmission. This advanced transmission is electronically controlled and uses Adaptive Shift Scheduling to monitor the vehicle’s maneuvers and adjusts the gear shifts accordingly for optimal performance and smoothness.
Some key features of the 6-speed SelectShift® automatic transmission include:
Adaptive Shift Scheduling: Continuously monitors the vehicle’s maneuvers, like cornering, hill climbing or hauling heavy loads, and adjusts the transmission shift patterns to match, optimizing performance and smoothness.
Progressive Range Select: Lets the driver lockout upper gears using the S button on the gearshift lever. This reduces frequent shifting when heavily loaded or traveling over steep hills.
Tow/Haul Mode: Adjusts the transmission shift schedule to reduce shift cycling, providing increased performance for large loads.
SelectShift®: Allows the driver to manually upshift or downshift without a clutch through buttons on the gearshift lever. Provides more control for passing, climbing hills or descending grades.
The automatic transmission in the Ford Transit Ambulance provides responsive, adaptable shifting for optimal performance in demanding emergency medical service applications. The SelectShift® functionality also gives drivers the option to manually control gears when desired.
Drivetrain
The Ford Transit Ambulance is available in both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations.
The standard rear-wheel drive model provides excellent traction and handling for most conditions. Power is sent to the rear wheels only through the transmission and drive axle. This allows for a tighter turning radius and better fuel economy compared to all-wheel drive.
For increased capability in poor weather or over rough terrain, the Transit Ambulance can be equipped with intelligent all-wheel drive. This is an on-demand system that operates in front-wheel drive mode until wheel slip is detected, then automatically engages the rear wheels for additional traction.
The all-wheel drive system utilizes a power take-off unit and second driveshaft to send torque to the rear axle as needed. This provides extra grip and stability while maintaining the maneuverability of a front-wheel drive van when all-wheel drive is not engaged. Ground clearance is the same between rear-wheel and all-wheel drive Transit Ambulances.
Whether configured for rear-wheel or all-wheel drive, the Ford Transit Ambulance provides a balanced, car-like driving experience with confident handling and a comfortable ride. The drivetrain can be tailored to the specific traction and driving demands of emergency medical services.
Suspension and Brakes
The Ford Transit is available with a range of suspension options to suit the needs of emergency services. All models come standard with an independent MacPherson strut front suspension and a rigid axle rear suspension. This provides a compliant ride while still allowing for a sizable payload capacity.
For improved handling, Ford offers an enhanced independent rear suspension option. This allows each rear wheel to move independently for better traction and stability. The independent rear suspension soaks up road imperfections, preventing uneven wear on tires and improving the ambulance’s ride quality. This is an important consideration for patient comfort.
In terms of braking, Ford equips the Transit ambulance with power-assisted front disc and rear drum brakes. Anti-lock brakes and electronic brakeforce distribution are standard across the range. Upgraded brakes are optional, including vented front discs for enhanced heat dissipation and improved fade resistance under heavy use.
Additional options like traction control and stability assist further augment the Transit’s safe handling capabilities. Ford has optimized the chassis for emergency service needs, delivering responsive handling and strong braking performance even when fully loaded. This gives EMS crews the capability and confidence to safely transport patients to hospitals.
Interior and Equipment
The Ford Transit can be outfitted with a range of interior options and medical equipment to serve as an ambulance.
Seating Capacity
The interior of a Transit ambulance is designed to accommodate 2-3 EMTs up front and 1-2 patients in the back. Some models opt for bucket seats up front for the driver and passenger, while a three-person bench seat is possible as well. There is ample legroom and headroom to allow EMTs to perform medical care and monitoring.
In the rear patient area, there is space and anchoring for a cot or gurney. Individual seats can also be installed with seat belts to secure mobile patients. The seating is flexible based on the needs of each EMS service.
Medical Equipment
To transform the Transit cargo van into an ambulance, extensive medical equipment is installed. This includes oxygen tanks, suction units, defibrillators, blood pressure monitors, splints, bandages, medications, and more. Cabinets, drawers, and mounting hardware are added to properly secure the equipment during transport.
Electrical upgrades are made to supply medical devices with ample power. Extra interior lights are also added for visibility during emergency care. Communication radios and computer terminals link the Transit ambulance to dispatch services.
The Ford Transit ambulance balances transporting capacity with the necessary medical equipment that EMTs require. The interior layout allows for patient care equivalent to that in a traditional ambulance.
Conversion Process
The Ford Transit has become a popular choice as an ambulance conversion platform due to its versatile configurations, cargo capacity, and driveability. Converting a stock Transit into an ambulance requires extensive modifications to the interior and electrical systems in order to accommodate the specialized medical equipment and layout.
The conversion process starts by stripping out the stock interior down to a bare cargo van. The floor is then rebuilt and reinforced to support the weight of medical equipment. Openings are cut into the body to allow installation of emergency lights, sirens, scene lights, and auxiliary air conditioning units. Decisions have to be made on where to place items like the stretcher, cabinetry, oxygen tanks, and control consoles to optimize workflow for EMTs.
Electrical wiring must be completely redone to not only power the medical equipment but also ensure it is connected to a dedicated battery and that a second alternator is installed to prevent draining the starting battery. Low voltage wiring for controls, monitors, and 12V outlets is routed throughout the vehicle.
Once the floor, walls, cabinetry, and equipment are installed, the next step is upholstering the interior with easy to clean surfaces. Various configurations can include a walk-through aisle to access the patient, bench seats with safety belts for transporting additional EMTs, and even a privacy curtain to separate the cab from the patient area.
The final steps involve testing all equipment, certifying compliance with medical regulations, and licensing the vehicle as an ambulance. The conversion process can take 4-6 weeks for a standard build. Customized features or specialty vehicles like a mobile command unit require additional time and expense.
Safety Features
The Ford Transit Ambulance comes equipped with a range of standard and optional safety features to protect occupants and prevent accidents.
Ford conducted extensive crash testing on the Transit to meet or exceed rigorous safety standards. The passenger variant achieved a 5-star overall rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), including 5 stars in the frontal and side crash tests.
All Transit Ambulances feature advanced airbags, including front airbags for the driver and passenger as well as side curtain airbags to protect occupants in the event of a rollover. The front airbags deploy from the steering wheel and instrument panel while the side curtain airbags drop from the roof rail to cover the side windows.
Additional standard safety features include an anti-lock braking system (ABS), stability control, traction control, rollover mitigation, and a tire pressure monitoring system. ABS prevents the wheels from locking up and skidding during emergency braking situations. Electronic stability control detects loss of traction and applies brakes to individual wheels in order to keep the vehicle going in the intended direction.
Available advanced driver assistance technologies on the Transit Ambulance include:
- Blind spot information system – alerts drivers to vehicles in adjacent lanes.
- Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking – can detect impending collisions and apply brakes automatically.
- Lane keeping system – detects lane markings and provides steering input to stay in the lane.
- Adaptive cruise control – maintains a set speed and distance behind the vehicle ahead.
Properly used restraint systems and attentive driving are imperative for safety. However, these technologies provide an added layer of protection and crash avoidance in the Ford Transit Ambulance.
Cost
The base Ford Transit offers ambulance manufacturers a cost-effective starting point for building an emergency medical vehicle. The Transit van starts at around $36,000 for a basic cargo van model. From there, ambulance manufacturers can choose from several configurations of the Transit to meet their needs before starting the full conversion process.
Building out an ambulance includes major modifications like installing emergency lights, sirens, cabinets, bench seating, medical equipment, oxygen tanks, and the required HVAC system for transporting patients. These ambulance-specific features can add $50,000 – $100,000 or more to the total cost of the vehicle. Some other additions that increase the price include:
- Diesel engine upgrade – $5,000
- All-wheel drive – $3,000
- Additional wheelbase length – $3,000
- Safety features like backup cameras or sensors – $1,000+
So while a basic Transit cargo van starts around $36k, a fully-equipped Transit ambulance can cost $100,000 to $150,000 depending on the options and features included. Emergency medical transportation has rigorous standards and requirements, so building out an ambulance is a major investment for manufacturers. But the Ford Transit provides an ideal blank slate to start from when designing a capable and affordable ambulance.