Ambulance upgrades to boost response across Yorkshire this winter
Yorkshire Ambulance Service has received 73 new vehicles
Last updated 31st Dec 2025
Yorkshire Ambulance Service has received 73 new emergency vehicles as part of one of the largest ambulance fleet upgrades in recent years.
The addition is part of a £75m government-backed initiative to strengthen frontline services during winter pressures exacerbated by an ongoing flu epidemic. New ambulances have been rolled out to regions across England, with Yorkshire's allocation of 73 vehicles among the highest in the country.
Supporting paramedics with modern technology
The double crew ambulances are equipped with modern safety technology and design improvements that enhance patient care and staff safety. Their increased reliability reduces breakdowns and downtime, keeping more ambulances available for emergencies.
These vehicles, converted in locations like Goole and Bradford in Yorkshire, have also supported skilled jobs. By boosting local production, the initiative contributes to economic growth and investment in British industries.
Jason Killens, Chair of the Association of Ambulance Chief Executives emphasised the benefits for emergency care, saying:
“These new ambulances include a range of design improvements that enhance patient care and staff safety.
“They are lighter, more fuel-efficient, and produce fewer emissions while supporting paramedics to deliver urgent care more effectively. Their improved reliability also means fewer breakdowns and less time out of service, keeping more vehicles on the road and ready to respond to patients.”
Meeting winter demand
Health Secretary Wes Streeting says: “In an emergency, every minute matters. When someone dials 999, they should get help fast – not be left waiting because of creaking kit or preventable delays.
“These new ambulances are already helping to cut response times and keep more vehicles on the road, just as the NHS is facing a tidal wave of flu and the ongoing disruption of strikes.”
Yorkshire Ambulance Service's upgrades are part of a broader investment through the government’s Urgent and Emergency Care Plan, which includes £412m committed over the next four years to modernise fleets across England and support emergency services during critical periods.