Recently completed, the trial deployed the plug-in hybrid as a single responder vehicle based out of Hastings. SECAmb also deployed a network of new electric vehicle charging points at the Trust’s Make Ready Centres in the region, to identify cost and carbon footprint reductions from the new technology.

It features a five-cylinder, 215bhp diesel engine powering the front wheels and 70bhp electric motor at the rear, offering an electric range of 31 miles but with four-wheel drive and high performance on offer when both units combined.

SECAmb environmental manager, Julia Brown, said: ‘The vast majority of our emissions are associated with the mileage resulting from our operational activity of delivering an emergency response service.

‘This trial with Volvo is a valuable contribution to our overall plans to improve the resilience of our business by being able to operate our vehicles on a mix of fuels, rather than relying on one individual fuel, and reducing our carbon footprint in the process.’

The Trust is now assessing the results of the trial, ahead of deciding whether to add further plug-in hybrids to its fleet, a spokesperson said.