Nissan NV400 Ambulance Joins Tokyo’s Zero Emission Initiative

Nissan Motor Company has provided the Tokyo Fire Department with a zero-emission NV400 model to work as a fully functional ambulance for the city.

The addition of the electric vehicle (EV) is an example of how the city is actively taking steps towards lowering carbon emission levels with the proposed “Zero Emission Initiative.”

This project was done as a collaborative effort between Nissan, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, and the Tokyo Fire Department. It’s the first time that an official-use emergency vehicle relies solely on sustainable energy rather than traditional fuel.

“Nissan strongly believes in sustainable mobility and strives to contribute to a world with zero emissions and zero fatalities,” said Ashwani Gupta, representative executive officer, and chief operating officer at Nissan Motor Company. “This project is another great example of our efforts to enhance the accessibility of eco-friendly vehicles to local communities.”

Beyond the ambulance’s engine, the Nissan NV400 is also equipped with an electric stretcher that makes it easy for paramedics to access quickly.

Another helpful component of the EV powertrain is reduced noise and vibration levels compared to a traditional gasoline-powered vehicle. The electric motor makes it easier for ambulance staff to hear each other while limiting stress levels in patients.

Two lithium-ion battery packs support its EV capabilities (33 kilowatt-hours) with an additional battery (8 kWh) allowing longer use of electrical equipment and the air- conditioning system. The ambulance can also turn into a mobile source of power in case of a power outage or natural disaster.

Thanks to its electric design, the Nissan NV400 ambulance serves its purpose as an efficient solution since it reduces costs for both charging and maintenance. This particular model was constructed based on a converted Nissan NV400 which is available for commercial sale in Europe.

Autoworks Kyoto executed the ambulance’s bodywork, which is compliant with Japanese regulations and designed to meet customer needs. The robust and practical ambulance package was developed by Gruau, a major European emergency vehicle bodywork company.