At the world's largest trade fair for fire services and civil protection (Interschutz), Europe's LCV converter is presenting an exclusive ambulance unit concept. Under the code name Box Gruau, this concept brings together a multitude of innovations developed for emergency services around the world.
Gruau is unveiling the world premiere of an ambulance unit concept car at their Interschutz exhibition stand in Hanover (20-25 June). The largest international exhibition dedicated to fire and rescue services, civil protection, safety, and security is a unique opportunity to present a new product and to receive feedback from a very large range of users: firefighters, emergency doctors, nurses, etc. as well as decision-makers from the health sector coming from all over the world!
Private ambulance drivers
Presented under the code name Box Gruau, this new product marks the companies return to the sector and strengthens their product range, which is already a benchmark for the conversion of vans for firefighters, emergency services, and private ambulance drivers.
The original unit is supplied by one of the best specialists in the field, with an outstanding global reputation
Developed in the company's internal R&D departments, the Gruau Box is based on the practices observed among emergency service professionals and benefits from the company's customization expertise. The result is an ultra-connected, fully secure, responsibly designed multiplexed unit, optimized for patient care and produced to premium quality standards. From national to international, from the fire service to the ambulance service, the Gruau Box has been designed to meet the requirements of the emergency services. To achieve this, the original unit is supplied by one of the best specialists in the field, with an outstanding global reputation.
Outstanding global reputation
On this foundation, the in-house R&D departments, the specialist developers based at the Gruau Tours site, and the group's engineers created a layout that leaves nothing to chance. "The Gruau Box can be perfectly adapted to the requirements of professionals.”
“As a result, no two units will look the same. We are exhibiting our concept car, based on a Mercedes Sprinter chassis cab, in a ‘full options’ version to discuss with professionals the suitability of the proposed solutions to their requirements," explains Sylvain Senet, General Manager of the Ambulance Division of the Gruau Group. The Gruau Box has been designed down to the smallest detail so that professionals can perform their duties - intervene in emergency situations and save lives - in optimal conditions. The floor is thermally and acoustically insulated to provide a more comfortable environment for the professional and patient.
Eliminating areas of bacterial retention
The heating/air-conditioning system innovatively diffuses air from the center of the roof to the exterior
The backlighting of the different areas, the electrical wiring, the fluids, and the air flows are integrated in aluminum profiles specifically developed to be easily attached to the walls. Therefore, it offers amazing flexibility for the configuration (sockets, lighting, etc.) according to the requirements of the professionals, as well as the possibility of changing the layout throughout the lifetime of the unit. They are attached without visible screws or gaps, which eliminates areas of bacterial retention.
The heating/air-conditioning system innovatively diffuses air from the center of the roof to the exterior, along the entire length, creating a climatic ‘bubble’ similar to that of an aircraft cockpit. Before being pulsed into the unit, the air is treated and disinfected. Dust and particles are filtered and bacteria are eliminated by UV.
Integrating IoT technology
To facilitate monitoring, maintenance, and management in a fleet, the Gruau Box is connected and integrates IoT technology. All functions of the unit and cab communicate with each other and the outside world.
A technical compartment provides access to electronic components such as the second battery
A technical compartment, accessible from the exterior, provides access to electronic components such as the second battery, heating system, relays, electronic modules, and the RFID box. This greatly facilitates intervention for diagnosis, troubleshooting, and updates. Connectivity that also allows the optimization and planning of the unit's equipment. For example, the oxygen system allows the professional to control the pressure, know what volume has been delivered to the patient and how many liters are left while remaining seated: a system for controlling and monitoring oxygen bottles which is unique on the market.
Monitoring oxygen bottles
This information can also be accessed remotely by the regulator, who can send the vehicle on another assignment or program its recharge. In addition to oxygen, all the equipment can be monitored in real-time.
The Gruau Box is adapted to the challenges of our time: it has been eco-designed with sustainability as a primary objective. Its uncompromising manufacturing quality guarantees long-term use. The unit fully detachable, and designed to be removed and re-installed on a new chassis. This improves its environmental footprint but also the amortization of the initial investment. Some materials used in the unit are recycled (aluminum, ABS) and all are recyclable. Eco-friendly materials that also have a high-quality feel and look.
Official product launch
The world premiere at the Interschutz exhibition is the final stage before the official product launch
Each unit can be fully customized in the choice of colors, seats (shape, heating function, 4-point harness, etc.), equipment, lighting, and all electronic functions, which can also be programmed and reprogrammed remotely.
Finally, three autonomous heating solutions are offered, including an electrical system that makes the Gruau Box compatible with a chassis fitted with an electric motor. The concept car at the Hanover Show is a demonstration of Gruau's expertise in development capabilities, quality of production, and ability to offer customized layouts. Designed to be ergonomic, customizable, connected, and durable, this unit is also characterized by its premium positioning.
The world premiere at the Interschutz exhibition is the final stage before the official product launch. The Gruau Box will then receive its official name and provide a new solution that emergency services around the world can rely on.
