By Dan White
This completely modern and revolutionary new ambulance design will change the face of EMS in the United States. It has all the latest safety and performance innovations American ingenuity can muster. It’s sleek, fast, safe and sexy. I think this ambulance could be the transportation technology breakthrough we’ve been waiting for. It’s clearly a whole new way to practice EMS on the street.
My first amazement came when I opened the aerodynamic hood to see the 500 cubic inch monster gas engine under the bonnet. The air intake was suitably massive to feed the thing plenty of air. Modern electronics were on prominent display everywhere. As I moved to the driver’s seat, the interior luxury abounded. I sunk into deep-cushioned seats richly trimmed in leather, with power adjustments in every position. It even had a lavish padded armrest to complete the package.
Moving to the rear compartment, the placement of everything just made sense. The attendant’s seat was forward-facing and at arms reach of the patient. No more dancing like a circus bear while rendering critical care. The paramedic has every single instrument and control system within easy reach, too. And if you end up in an accident? The folding safety seat and restraint system will keep you right where you belong.
Road noise
The adjustable ride air suspension system damped out all the road noise. It was so quiet and smooth that I could hear the heartbeat and watch a crystal-clear ECG tracing on the screen with ease. Even a BP was much easier to take because I could actually hear it. This vehicle has the best acoustic insulation and ride dampening system I’ve ever experienced. Even loading it is a breeze with an entry height lower than anything else on the street. The interior conveniences continued to impress.
I counted at least six heating and air conditioning vents to keep my patient and me comfortable. Copious windows completely surround the patient compartment. Combined with the powerful ceiling lights, they made for much better visibility. All my critical equipment is securely wall or bulkhead mounted, yet immediately available. Privacy drapes ensure modesty during examinations and the second head-end seat makes for convenient access to the airway. Then they let me drive it and I fell in love.
The astonishingly low center of gravity combined with the ultra-light composite top made for sports car-like handling. Lane changes and evasive maneuvers were easy. The handling is solid and predictable, without compromise to the dreamy ride in the back. I can see how a good wheelman could get me to the ER without me ever feeling a thing in the back. There’s just one huge problem with this ambulance.
It’s a 1978 Superior Cadillac and you can’t buy it anymore.
