This vehicle boasts a dramatically increased payload compared to the existing Manitoba fleet, from an estimated average of about 1200 lb, to a minimum of 2200 lbs. The increased payload should significantly improve braking ability, reduce wear to brakes, suspension and steering systems components, and improve vehicle handling. This allows the seats to recline at 30 degrees plus, to ease back strain to staff when in the vehicle for long periods. Passive restraints Safety netting has been installed at the forward end of the squad bench as a passive restraint system to ensure that personnel are not catapulted into the bulkhead in a sudden deceleration. All sharp corners have been either broken with a large radius, or have padded bolsters, including padding protecting the staff from the rear door locking pins.
Flooring installed in the vehicles is a non-slip, bacteriostatic type.
Upholstery in the rear of the vehicle is all seamless, vacuum formed vinyl to minimize pathogen transmission. Lifting height for cot loading is lowered in the E350 long wheelbase and is among the lowest in the industry. Lighting A new, high intensity emergency lighting system has been incorporated into a front and rear lightbar. This lighting incorporates both high intensity halogen, and a multiflash strobe pattern that will substantially increase visibility in all night and daylight conditions. An additional benefit of this lighting system is significantly reduced electrical draw.