The South Western Ambulance Service NHS
Foundation Trust in the UK took delivery of 18 Skoda Kodiaqs, modified by Halls
Electrical to meet the operational requirements of the clinical team. The
mid-size SUV features the typical ambulance livery and is fitted with emergency
lights and sirens. More changes were made inside, where Skoda’s official
partner removed the two extra seats in the boot and redesigned the space to fit
live-saving equipment, including an in-built combination safe for storing drugs
and a fire extinguisher.
Up front, the dashboard has been modified,
with the company adding a second screen in the center console angled towards
the driver that houses information relating to 999 calls. As a result, the
infotainment system was moved to the passenger area and incorporated into the
dashboard.
The vehicle still features satellite
navigation system, DAB digital radio and SmartLink+, joined by the aftermarket
communications equipment and other gear. “We have chosen the Skoda Kodiaq as
our operational officer vehicle because of the space available for the
specialist and technical equipment required by this staff group”, said the
South Western Ambulance Service Learning and Development Manager, Robin
Gwinnett.
Skoda’s specially converted vehicles come
with a special package that includes, aside from the mods, breakdown recovery,
service, maintenance and repair requirements.
