A new state-of-the-art ambulance has arrived for the members of Villanova Emergency Medical Services (VEMS). The student-run volunteer organization’s request for a new ambulance to replace their old 1996 model took two years to be processed and approved.

The new vehicle is a 2003 Horton, which VEMS Captain John Wenzel described as “the industry leader in ambulances.” The base which holds the ambulance box is a Ford E450.

The need for a replacement was due to regular wear on the former one, which was “subject to the weather as it was stored outside,” according to Wenzel.

In addition, the 1996 McCoy Miller model was used on every call placed to VEMS, which services the campus community year-round, 24 hours a day and seven days a week. “It saw extensive use every day,” said Wenzel. “Not to say that it was failing, but maintenance costs were adding up and it was out of service a lot with repairs.”

VEMS worked with the administration to get bids for a new model. “The administration recognized our need, and I’m happy that they chose an excellent high quality product,” said Wenzel.

The old ambulance was traded in to the dealer when the new one was delivered on Jan. 21. The equipment was then transferred from one to the other.

Wenzel added that new equipment was purchased along with the new vehicle, including a new stretcher.

“The ambulance is an incredible piece of equipment which will serve VEMS and the University community well in the years to come,” said Wenzel. “It was bittersweet for everyone to see the old one go, but we’re excited for the new one.”