London Ambulance Service vehicles have received a cutting-edge tech upgrade to help crews respond more efficiently in emergencies.
The AppConnect software has been donated by Volkswagen, who are one of many businesses across the country to have supported NHS staff during the COVID-19 outbreak. Features include advanced navigation, a programme that analyses and improves driving style, and systems to support working on the move.
The cars that have been fitted with the new technology are used by the London Ambulance Service’s volunteer Emergency Responders – members of the public who have passed a rigorous application and assessment process to be able to respond to 999 calls in blue-light vehicles. There are currently 130 responders supporting LAS operations.
The software package is currently being installed on five Volkswagen Tiguan vehicles. The Tiguans were also a donation, from the Freemasons to the charity that trains volunteers to support London Ambulance Service in its work.
Chris Hartley-Sharpe, Head of Volunteer Responders at London Ambulance Service, said, “This technical support from Volkswagen will make a real difference, helping our brilliant volunteers to lead an effective and professional emergency response.
“The response team would not exist without generous donations of resources and equipment like those from Volkswagen, and generous donations of time and expertise from our volunteers. It is a fantastic example of people from all walks of life coming together to help their fellow Londoners in times of need.”
Andrew Savvas, Volkswagen UK Managing Director, said, “Being just a phone call away and available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, it’s easy to forget that ambulances and emergency responder vehicles need regular maintenance, and never has the need been greater for these vehicles to be in peak condition and ready to act as quickly as possible as in recent times. We were very happy to help the heroes of the London Ambulance Service with these upgrades.”
