Data from the Department of Health and Social Care reports that 1,141 new or replacement double-crewed ambulances have been delivered to NHS Trusts across England over the past year (between April 2025 and March 2026) – the highest number in a single year since records began.
Funded through a combination of national investment and local funding, the majority of the vehicles replace older ambulances, with the remainder providing additional fleet capacity. The investment will boost frontline capacity, help paramedics respond to patients faster and ensure patients and staff benefit from a modern, reliable fleet. Vehicles are equipped with the technology to better protect staff and support faster, more effective treatment.
Improving efficiency
Modern ambulances are more reliable and less likely to require repairs, reducing the amount of time vehicles spend off the road. This means more ambulances are available to respond to 999 calls, helping cut waiting times and improve patient outcomes.
The rollout forms part of wider action to improve urgent and emergency care services, including:
• Improving flow through hospitals
• Improving delays to discharge through better join-up with social care
• Putting more power in the hands of local leaders
• Improving strategic leadership.
Anna Parry, Managing Director of the Association of Ambulance Chief Executives (AACE), says: “Replacing older vehicles with modern, better‑equipped ambulances means greater reliability, fewer breakdowns and more time on the road where they are needed most.
“For our crews, these vehicles make a tangible difference. The enhanced safety features and improved working environment support paramedics and other clinicians to deliver high‑quality care under intense pressure, and they help our people feel safer and better supported on shift.”
This level of investment is essential as ambulance services continue to face sustained demand. A modern, resilient fleet is fundamental to improving response times and ensuring patients receive timely, safe care wherever they are when it is needed. We welcome this record year of delivery and look forward to continued progress in strengthening ambulance services across the country.
