More than 140 new ambulances and support vehicles will be introduced under the first phase of the Welsh Ambulance Service’s new fleet strategy, part of a five-year plan to modernise its operations and improve emergency care across the country.
The initial deployment of 142 vehicles is backed by Welsh Government investment and will support both emergency response and non-emergency patient transport.
The full strategy runs to 2030 and includes a shift towards electric and hybrid vehicles where viable, aiming to reduce the service’s environmental impact in line with national net zero targets.
The announcement comes ahead of operational changes due in July, which will see the service improve its response to life-threatening 999 calls, including cardiac arrests and serious incidents.
Health Secretary Jeremy Miles said: “This investment shows our commitment to ensuring the Welsh Ambulance Service has the modern, reliable fleet it needs to deliver exceptional care for people across Wales.
“The ambulance service plays a critical role not just in emergency response, but also supporting patient flow through the wider healthcare system.
“By replacing 142 vehicles, we’re improving the resilience of our emergency response capabilities and supporting our environmental goals.”
Chris Turley, executive director of finance and corporate resources at the Welsh Ambulance Service, said: “We’re very grateful to the Welsh Government for the continual investment, which enables us to operate a modern, efficient and fit-for-purpose fleet.
“Embracing the latest technologies and innovations whilst working in partnership with staff and trade union partners is essential to provide the best possible experience for patients, as well as an ergonomically-friendly working environment for staff, who spend the majority of their working day aboard these vehicles.”
He added: “As the national ambulance service for Wales, spread over an area of 8,000 square miles, improving air quality is something we’re very committed to, so these cleaner and greener vehicles reinforce our commitment to reduce our environmental footprint in alignment with the Welsh Government’s net zero strategic plan.”
