North East Ambulance Service trials first electric patient transport vehicle to support patients across the region
North East Ambulance Service (NEAS) is beginning a new electric vehicle trial within its patient transport service (PTS), marking another significant step in the organisation’s commitment to delivering greener, more sustainable care for patients across the region.
The trial will involve an electric Renault Master stretcher vehicle operating as a core patient transport service (PTS) vehicle over the coming months. It will support live patient journeys while NEAS assesses how zero‑emission technology performs in everyday scheduled ambulance operations.
Head of patient transport, Barry Dews said: “This is an exciting step forward in modernising our Patient Transport Service fleet and understanding how electric vehicles can support both our patients and our people.
“A dedicated group of trained colleagues will operate the vehicle throughout the trial, supported by familiarisation, refresher driver training and clear operational guidance, so patient safety is always our priority.
“By testing the vehicle across different journey types and distances, we’ll gather valuable insight to help shape future fleet decisions, improve patient journeys and support a more sustainable ambulance service for the future.”
For patients, the electric vehicle offers a quieter and smoother journey, supporting comfort and dignity during transport. The vehicle provides seating for three seated passengers and one stretcher patient, with flexibility to support a wide range of patient needs.
Patient transport operations manager, Andrew Williams added: “The vehicle has been designed to meet a wide range of patient needs while also improving safety for staff, with features such as a ramp and winch system.
“Having this flexibility is important for patient transport and allows us to safely and comfortably support patients with differing mobility and care requirements day to day.”
The electric PTS trial is part of NEAS’s wider electric vehicle programme, supporting the NHS Net Zero Travel and Transport Strategy to cut emissions while maintaining safe and effective care.
By testing electric vehicles across services including patient transport, emergency ambulances and cars, NEAS is exploring how new technology can reduce carbon impact and support a more sustainable NHS in the North East.
Read more about our sustainability plans on our website: https://www.neas.nhs.uk/about-us/policies-and-procedures/environment-and-sustainability