The necessity for new technology is growing amid the coronavirus, leading to Magen David Adom's (MDA) development of an ambulance bus with the potential to hold up to 13 patients: the first of its kind.
The bus consists of three sealed partitions, effectively sealing off the driver, allowing for full protection when transporting highly infectious patients. The driver, however, is still able to maintain communication and contact with ambulance staff through an internal communication system, as well as cameras placed throughout the vehicle.
The bus can accommodate up to 13 patients, with two in critical care in the second area, and 11 sitting in the third of the sealed off area. The bus can also transport up to 14 emergency medical team members.
The design developed with the coronavirus pandemic in mind, and within three weeks of the initial project's start date, the bus was finished. A ceremony was held at Osem headquarters, one of the largest food distributors in the Israel, upon its completion.
Built by the IDF's Land Technology Brigade, the project was made possible by large donations from MDA, Osem and Nestle, and done in cooperation with the Dan Bus Company of Israel.