Ambulance service commits to using new clean air technology

East of England Ambulance Service (EEAST) has nearly 500 ambulances that drive more than 12 million miles a year. One way the service can contribute to cleaner air is to reduce emissions by limiting engine idling.

Today is Clean Air Day (June 20), which sets out the benefits of clean air – including: better mood, improved sleep, reduction in chances of lung and heart disease, improved digestion and increased energy levels.

Since February, the fleet team has been piloting an NHSE-approved anti-idling system. ACETECH Eco-Run can turn off idling fleet engines when safe to do so. By reducing idling, fleets can cut fuel use and reduce emissions.

“The system constantly monitors a range of metrics while the vehicle is in use, including battery levels and temperatures to turn the engine on or off to reduce engine use or to preserve battery charge.

“It would be triggered by situations such as waiting at a hospital with the engine left running, but will not compromise the vehicle’s essential systems – including the saloon heating/air-conditioning.”

Keiran Bromley, Fleet Clinical Engagement & Implementation Manager for EEAST.

A test vehicle fitted with the technology has been operating around Hertfordshire since February. The results show this one vehicle idled unnecessarily for 26 hours a month- wasting more than 31 litres of diesel. The CO2 emissions would take four trees a year to absorb.

EEAST is the first Trust in the country to commit to fitting new vehicles with this new technology. By late summer 40 Renault Master ambulances are expected to have the system fitted and all our new fleet vehicles will include it.

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