St John and ASB launch the first electric ambulance

Hato Hone St John (HHSJ) is trialling Australasia’s first electric emergency ambulance, supported by partner ASB.

ASB gifted the custom-built emergency ambulance to HHSJ at a blessing ceremony in Ngāruawāhia recently. It will be based in Hamilton where it will undergo testing.

Cameron Brill, HHSJ’s CEO, Operations, said that with a fleet of almost 700 ambulances, reducing vehicle emissions is imperative. It is where the organisation could have the biggest environmental impact.

“We want to provide a world-class health service to our communities but in a more environmentally friendly and sustainable way,” Mr Brill said.

He added “We would not be here today had it not been for ASB stepping forward to support this project.”

ASB Head of Sustainability, Carrie Gage, said ASB was proud to be a long-standing partner of HHSJ, and to support them on this important initiative.

“Building a sustainable future for all New Zealanders is a core focus for us. We see potential for this project to have a rippling effect through other industries on the same path. We are extremely excited to be able to pave the way for future work in this space,” Ms Gage said.

Dr Colin Tan, Head of Service and Sustainability, said that ASB has been part of the process since 2022. The bank has been supporting the idea and providing funding to build the vehicle from inception to realisation.

“We believe we are the first emergency service in Australasia to trial the feasibility of an electric emergency ambulance.”

Dr Tan continued “ASB has been pivotal in helping us to build and trial the first EV (Electric Vehicle) emergency ambulance in New Zealand. We are also especially grateful to Siemens and YHI for their generous donation of EV chargers. These are now installed at our Hamilton Station. A big thank-you to everyone for making this project possible.”

“We are keen to analyse the cost benefits of fuel savings, as well as carbon emissions reductions. We will also be closely analysing the clinical experience for our people and our patients.”