Skoda has announced that it is continuing its partnership with the London Air Ambulance Charity, and will replace the vehicles currently in use.
Currently using three Octavia vRS estates and two Kodiaqs, the new versions of these vehicles will be used as support for the helicopters and as emergency vehicles when its helicopters remain grounded.
This confirmation means the 12-year partnership will continue for the next three years, with the cars leased through Volkswagen Financial Services.
The rapid response cars will be used from sunset to 8am every day and when the helicopter is unable to fly in adverse weather – so will play a key role in the charity’s day-to-day operations.
Paul Smith, London Air Ambulance driving standards manager, said: “We provide a vital service to the capital transporting an advanced trauma doctor and paramedic to seriously injured people.
“Whilst the helicopter can reach patients in a matter of minutes, our fleet of rapid response cars is also critical to serve the community and ensure that we are ready to respond instantly in all-weather conditions. The reliability and performance of Skoda continues to meet the demand of our service and we are pleased to renew the contract once again.”
Skoda UK’s head of fleet Henry Williams, said: “London’s Air Ambulance service places heavy demand on its vehicles and it’s fantastic to see that they continue to perform excellently under pressure. The Kodiaq will be a new addition to their fleet and its combination of high-performance, 4x4 capability and fuel economy will prove a resilient partner to the team.”
