Road Rescue Showcases Technology, Features at FDIC

MARION, S.C., April 27 -- Road Rescue will showcase new technology and features on its custom ambulances during FDIC, the industry's largest fire-rescue conference and trade show.

The Marion, South Carolina-based maker of custom ambulances and rescue vehicles will display three vehicles with design improvements developed to increase durability and safety while streamlining maintenance. Vehicles from Road Rescue, which is a subsidiary of Charlotte, Michigan-based Spartan Motors, Inc. , can be viewed at Booth 2549 during the three-day show, which begins today.

"Each year, there are more than 16.2 million ambulance runs to an emergency facility, which translates to 44,000 each day," said Randy Knors, president of Road Rescue. As our society continues to age, that number continues to grow -- and with it, the need for new and replacement ambulances.

"In developing these new vehicles, our goal was to offer features that make them safer for drivers, emergency technicians and patients. Road Rescue is a recognized leader in our industry for introducing new technology that improves safety, durability and ease of use -- key items of importance to customers."

The new ambulances from Road Rescue feature:

* Advanced seatbelt system and sensors: Similar to the seatbelt sensors found in most automobiles, the new Road Rescue sensors will alert the driver when an attendant is not properly belted to the squad bench or attendant seat. The seatbelt mechanism itself is an advanced system that allows for greater restraint yet offers quick-release capabilities.

* ES-Key Multiplex system: Road Rescue's new Class One electrical system features distributed architecture that reduces the amount of wiring needed, reducing installation time and materials costs. The unit offers remote, real- time diagnostics and troubleshooting from remote locations, which streamlines maintenance and reduces vehicle downtime.

* Single-panel sidewalls, concealed hinges: Improvements to the ambulance body style improve both the look and durability of the vehicle. Road Rescue's single-panel construction and the concealed hinge design provide enhancements to its historically sound structural integrity, reduced maintenance and improved "closing quality" for the door.

* More space: The new modular design provides more space in the cab and the body, which improves comfort for the driver, paramedics and patients.

"Our advanced seatbelt system and new sensors provide greater safety features for both emergency workers and the patients they are transporting," Knors said. "Each year, ambulance passengers are needlessly injured further during transport when attendants topple on to them. Our system offers extra reminders and encourages attendants to utilize best practices.

"We also made significant improvements to our multiplex electrical system which, in combination with our single panel construction and concealed hinges, reduces maintenance downtime. We recognize that our vehicles are 'in service for life,' and we want them to spend as much time as possible performing as well as possible."

About Road Rescue:

Established in 1976, Road Rescue, Inc. (http://www.roadrescue.com/ ) designs and manufactures custom modular ambulances and specialty vehicles. The Road Rescue(TM) brand name means high quality, innovation and customer care for emergency vehicle personnel throughout North America. Road Rescue vehicles are sold through a dealer network that covers the United States and Canada. Road Rescue is a subsidiary of Spartan Motors, Inc. .