Demers Ambulances: the World's First Electric Ambulance Manufactured from Scratch

Project history and implementation

In 2024, Demers Ambulances will be the first manufacturer in the world to build an electric ambulance from scratch.

The project began in 2016, during Demers Ambulances' strategic planning. The objective then was to create a new vehicle for paramedics while fighting climate change. A special work team was put together specifically for this project, with new talent joining the company's already qualified team.

The Belœil-based company wanted to start from scratch, rather than adapting an existing model into an electric version, as other manufacturers do. A Québec-based manufacturer of electric vehicles was contracted to design and manufacture the chassis and powertrain. Demers Ambulances would then add the necessary medical equipment.

The switch to all-electric power makes the ambulance quieter, which can reduce patient stress, and saves space. But above all, this mode of propulsion has enabled a complete rethink of ergonomics: gone is the dashboard worthy of a Boeing 777. All functions have been grouped together on a connected screen and on the steering wheel, giving direct control and preventing the driver from being distracted on the road.

The Demers eFX has already been ordered by Urgences-santé. A customer in Ontario has also signed up for one, and significant interest is even coming from the United States. Product demonstrations will take place in 2024, shortly before the first ambulance is delivered to Urgences-santé.

Major challenges remain, however. Managing a fleet of electric vehicles requires a change of habits. That is why Demers Ambulances will be offering a centralized, connected management system with its vehicles, so it can access essential vehicle information at all times to optimize their use.

Key players

Demers Ambulances: This company has been designing and assembling ambulances for 50 years. Innovation is at the heart of the company's approach to meeting customer requirements and the needs of paramedics.

A Québec manufacturer of electric vehicles: This business partner developed an ambulance chassis from scratch.

Paramedics: From the outset of the design process, the vehicle's users were consulted to adapt the ambulance to the realities of the field and improve its ergonomics, enabling faster and safer action for the benefit of the patient.

Urgences-santé: As its first customer, the public organization will initially use the ambulance for inter-hospital transfers. It will share its impressions with Demers in order to improve the ambulance in an iterative process.

Budget

The Demers eFX is more expensive to purchase, but maintenance and energy costs are lower. The lifespan of this innovative ambulance is estimated at 10 years, double that of a similar gasoline-powered vehicle.

The project was supported by the provincial and federal governments. Customers can also benefit from subsidies for the installation of charging stations.

Tip for developing an electric vehicle

Listening to customers: Because of the specific nature of such a vehicle, Demers Ambulances consulted paramedics and its first client, Urgences-santé. This strategy made it possible to identify needs and improve prototypes to better meet field requirements.