Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) ambulances can now transport up to two patients at once, despite being the same external size as the model they are replacing.
Five enhanced seventh-generation ambulances, known as Gen 7E ambulances, have been operating across Singapore since 9 July 2026.
They form part of SCDF’s operational fleet of 108 ambulances. More Gen 7E units will progressively replace sixth-generation ambulances over the coming years.
The Extra Capacity Comes From a Redesigned Interior
While the vehicle itself has not grown, its interior has been reorganised to accommodate as many as two patients instead of one.
The design was developed using feedback from paramedics and emergency medical technicians.
Side-facing bench seats allow paramedics to attend to patients while remaining seated. Their seatbelts also give them enough movement to lean forward without having to unbuckle themselves.
Commonly used medical supplies, including intravenous drips, gauze and sterile pads, are kept within reach. Other equipment is secured in overhead cabinets similar to those found in aircraft.
The stretcher-loading system has also been fitted with an improved pulley mechanism, reducing the force needed to move a patient into or out of the ambulance.
Air Suspension Reduces Vibration
Both the patient cabin and stretcher platform have air-suspension systems to reduce vibration during the journey.
This is particularly important when transporting patients with spinal injuries or when paramedics are performing chest compressions.
The ambulance also has several infection-control systems. These include air purification, antibacterial blue light, a disinfectant mist spray and ultraviolet disinfection.
Drivers get additional safety equipment such as a 360-degree exterior camera, a height sensor and a driver-alert system.
At the back of the ambulance, an LED display can warn motorists when a critically ill patient is on board or resuscitation is taking place. It can also provide traffic directions when the vehicle is parked at an incident.
EMS Calls Increased in 2025
SCDF received 257,158 emergency medical services calls in 2025, up 4.8 per cent from 245,279 in 2024.
Almost half of the 2025 calls involved people aged 65 and above. SCDF expects demand to continue rising over the next five years as Singapore’s population ages.
Of the calls received in 2025, 11,064 were classified as non-emergencies and 6,239 were false alarms. Calls involving road traffic accidents also increased from 9,564 in 2024 to 10,737 in 2025.
