The latest phase of innovation in emergency vehicle technology between Ford and Venari was launched at the Emergency Services Show (ESS) at the NEC in Birmingham in September.

Following 2021’s launch of the Ford Venari ‘Siren’, Venari Group unveiled two new Ford-based front line emergency response vehicles alongside the all-new Ford Venari patient transport vehicle.

The operational vehicle unveiled for the firefighting market is the Ford Venari ‘Rapid Response Firefighting Unit’. Based on a 5-tonne Ford Transit double chassis cab, capable of carrying up to five firefighters – the new Venari rapid response firefighting unit (RRFU) demonstrator boasts a robust, lightweight, aluminium body; maximising equipment carrying capability in conjunction with a 600-litre water tank – capable of being increased up to 1,200 litres or according to specific fire and rescue service requirements.

An internal ladder stowage system ensures the vehicle maintains the lowest possible centre of gravity whilst lightweight and ergonomic equipment stowage systems provide a platform for maximum firefighter efficiency at an incident.

The Ford Venari ‘Drone Response Unit’, based on a Ford Ranger chassis, was also unveiled at this year’s ESS. The specific drone response unit has been created to allow for increased reactivity and efficiency for emergency drone crews operating in firefighting and police organisations, amongst others.

The vehicle has a fleet of drones fully connected to the its systems, drone detection technology, a weather station, a lithium powered invertor, temperature-controlled battery charging and storage compartments, touch screen operations area, night vision lighting, a 42-inch monitor and operator welfare facilities.

Heliguy’s Training and Counter-Drone Development Manager, Ben Shirley explained: “The DRU has been specifically configured considering the most efficient method of deploying drones, whilst facilitating a plethora of additional operational requirements.

“A bespoke ready-to-fly mechanism means that the UAS remains fully assembled, ready to deploy immediately, saving valuable time for emergency service organisations benefiting from the use of drone technology. Every aspect of Emergency Service Drone operations has been considered and the multi-role vehicle is hugely beneficial for pre-planned and hasty operations, with enduring capabilities.

“Venari have turned our comprehensive concept into a reality, far exceeding expectations and seamlessly integrating innovative technologies to compliment the deployment of drones.”

Venari Group’s CEO, Oliver North, commented on the launches: “This year’s Emergency Services Show will highlight precisely where Venari are heading as an emergency vehicle manufacturer in terms of relevance, developmental capability and quality, underpinned clearly by a passion for innovative manufacturing.

“In an ever-evolving industry in terms of front-line user challenges, alongside global supply chain hurdles, I truly believe manufacturers must come to the table with comprehensive solutions to answer the questions asked of us by our world-class emergency services. We’ve done precisely that across multiple vehicle disciplines together with our incredible alliance partners, Ford.

“I couldn’t be prouder of what the team have produced in only 12 months alongside a demandingly full order book, and all without an ounce of compromise in build quality – which I truly believe is the best in the industry by some distance.”