NB's Malley Industries expands into U.S. with sleek new ambulance
New Brunswick's own Malley industries — known for supplying Ambulance New Brunswick's fleet among other things — is expanding into the United States market with a sleek new ambulance based on a conversion of a Ford Transit.
The new model is meant to be a lighter, safer and more ergonomic take on the traditional ambulance.
The response has been phenomenal so far, according to Terry Malley, CEO of Malley Industries.
"We've had a waiting list of potential dealers waiting to get these vehicles," said Malley.
Vitaly Samsonov, the owner of Global Emergency Vehicles in Levittown, Pennsylvania, one of largest ambulance dealers in the United States, picked up the first of the vehicles that will go into service Friday from the Dieppe plant.
"This is a big departure from the previous generation of ambulances," said Samsonov. "There was a lack of innovation in the industry. Over the past several decades, ambulances were pretty standard."
Some of the new features include fully molded rounded corners for increased safety inside the vehicle, a pivoting attendant seat, more headroom, and a clean design with easily accessible compartments.
"The material is extremely light. So it gives us a lot more carrying capacity for patients and equipment," said Malley. "It's a completely different design than what people are used to seeing."
Malley expects to sell between 50 and 60 of the vehicles in the first year, with the lion share going for export in the United States. The company broke into the American market two years ago, but is looking to expand.
Samsonov already has an order in place for a second one.
"Down the road we see a huge demand for these ambulances in our territory," said Samsonov.
"A big driving factor is the fact that there's a favourable exchange rate."
