When life-or-death situations arise, first responders need highly functioning vehicles to perform their jobs effectively. When choosing the best emergency vehicles, it’s necessary to understand the different types of ambulances available and which are ideal for your team.
You’ll need to consider the environment you’re driving in and the medical services you’re providing when deciding which type will best fit your needs. The following information explains the key differences between type 1 vs. type 3 ambulances.
Features of Ambulances
There are three basic ambulance types to choose from. Type 1 is built on a truck chassis, while type 3 uses a van chassis. Type 2 is designed like a van and looks different from types 1 and 3.
Types 1 and 3 are larger and have back ends designed as custom modules. While types 1 and 3 have a similar look, there are important key differences. There are ambulance design differences to consider, as well as variations in the function and performance of each.
Design
Type 1
The primary design differences between type 1 and type 3 ambulances are the chassis on which they are built and how the patient module connects to the front of the vehicle. Type 1 ambulance features include mounting on a truck chassis and the front resembling the interior of a pickup truck. There is usually a small window between the front and the back patient portion of the ambulance.
Type 3
Type 3 has a design that mounts on a cutaway van chassis. The area between the patient module and the front cab is usually larger and more like a doorway than a window. Type 3 provides greater access between the front and back compartments for transferring supplies.
When providing upgrades or maintenance for your ambulances, you’ll have to remember each vehicle’s design. For example, you’ll want to consult with an expert upfitting team to install emergency vehicle lights that work most effectively for your type of ambulance. Type 1 will need larger and brighter lights, while type 3 uses smaller headlights.
Function
Type 1
This ambulance style is a good choice when you need a vehicle for advanced or specialized medical care, such as a neonatal unit or an advanced life-support ambulance. Since Type 1 is built on a heavy-duty truck chassis, this design allows the vehicle to carry more extensive equipment and offer advanced life support.
Type 3
If you need an emergency vehicle for general medical care or basic life support, type 3 is likely a better choice. Type 3 ambulance specifications might include an all-aluminum module, LED lighting, and dome lighting in the patient compartment. Type 3 is also typically more budget-friendly and easier to maintain.
To keep an ambulance functioning as effectively as possible, you’ll need to keep up with the latest technological advances. It’s also important to have the equipment in an ambulance as organized as possible. This may mean updating your storage solutions.
Performance
Type 1
Type 1 is more durable and ideal for demanding environments, including rougher terrain. These vehicles can handle more supplies. This will make these ambulances more suitable for remote rural areas since they can carry more equipment in challenging environmental conditions.
Type 3
Type 3 ambulances are smaller and easier to maneuver, making them ideal for a congested city environment. However, this type of emergency vehicle would not be able to hold as much equipment as type 1. In urban areas, emergency professionals would likely not have to drive as far and would be closer to hospitals and other medical facilities.
You’ll want to consult with upfitting experts to improve the performance of your ambulances. Features such as better lighting to improve visibility and enhanced safety features can increase performance, no matter what type of ambulance you use. You’ll need to prioritize the equipment that is most needed for each ambulance.
Choosing Between Type 1 and Type 3
When evaluating and comparing emergency vehicle performance between type 1 and type 3, there are a few points to remember. Type 1 is stronger, has a greater payload capacity, and can hold more equipment. Type 3 ambulance specifications are smaller and carry less, but the vehicles are generally easier to maneuver.
When selecting the best type of ambulance, you’ll want to consider the different categories, in addition to geographical location and the medical needs of the population you’re serving.
Ambulances are categorized as type A, B, C, or D.
- A provides only the most basic medical care.
- B offers basic life support (BLS).
- C has equipment for advanced life support (ALS).
- D are specialty vehicles. These are outfitted for specialized care such as intensive care or neonatal transportation.
Which Type is Best For You?
TCS Upfitting can help you design, upfit, and maintain your ambulances. Whether upgrading medical essentials or installing non-medical equipment such as headlights and bumpers, TCS Upfitting can ensure your vehicles are in top operating condition.
We can also customize your ambulances to meet your first responders’ specific needs. TCS professionals can help you understand ambulance design differences and provide guidance when choosing the best upgrades or customization options.
It’s imperative that all equipment on your ambulance is installed correctly. TCS technicians ensure all products are fitted efficiently and according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. We stand by what we do and provide a lifetime warranty on all our work. Contact TCS Upfitting today to get started.