Toyota out in force at The Emergency Services Show

Toyota is making its first appearance at The Emergency Services Show this week (21 – 22 September, NEC Birmingham) with a range of models equipped to meet the demands of police, fire and ambulance services.

The event is the UK’s leading showcase for the blue light sector, bringing together service providers and related businesses to demonstrate new operational solutions, products and technology innovations with a programme of live demonstrations and seminars.

Toyota is showing vehicles that are currently in use by the three principal emergency services.

The Corolla Touring Sports hybrid electric estate car is manufactured at the company’s Burnaston plant in Derbyshire and is modified to meet the requirements for police use by the new Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) unit at the factory. This one-stop-shop service makes for a seamless process once the car comes off the assembly line, saving time for the customer.

The Hilux Double Cab with all-wheel drive is a fully operational and liveried fire appliance currently used by the West Yorkshire Fire Service watch managers. It is designed to carry primary first aid and safety equipment and to provide fast response to emergencies alongside fire engines. If arriving first on the scene, the watch managers are able to brief the emergency crews on the real-time situation, enabling a speedy and focused response. The Toyota Hilux has established a global reputation for exceptional durability and reliability and its ability to operate in the toughest environments. These qualities have made it a popular choice for aid agencies worldwide.

The third model on show is a RAV4 plug-in hybrid electric SUV, used by the Welsh Ambulance Service NHS Trust as a rapid response vehicle across Wales. The Toyota has proved a top choice for the service, which purchased 50 hybrid models in 2020 and has since added a further 30 plug-in hybrid versions to its fleet, further reducing its vehicle emissions. The plug-in system enables around 46 miles of all-electric, zero emission driving; once the battery is depleted, the RAV4 then automatically switches to efficient self-charging hybrid running. Other benefits include intelligent all-wheel drive (AWD-i) for secure performance in slippery conditions and ample load space to carry essential medical kit.

Neil Broad, General Manager One Toyota Fleet, said: “The use of our vehicles by the emergency services is the best possible validation of the quality and reliability of the Toyota brand. The addition of the SVO unit at Burnaston will deliver greater efficiencies in the longer term as we look to increase the scope of our customisation work. With models in day-to-day use by each of the principal emergency services, we are also well-placed to inform potential customers about their real-world performance and benefits.”

More information about The Emergency Services Show can be found at https://www.emergencyuk.com/  and for more details about the Toyota range visit https://www.toyota.co.uk/.

ENDS