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Chengli Automobile Industry Park
Are standard ambulance vehicles considered trucks or vans?
Are Standard Ambulances Trucks or Vans? The Full Story
Are you wondering if ambulances are trucks or vans? This big question has a simple answer. Let’s look at what makes ambulances special and the types that help save lives every day.
Table of Contents
Types of Ambulances: Trucks vs Vans
Ambulances come in different types. Some look like big trucks. Others look like tall vans.
Ambulance Types: Trucks vs. Vans
Ambulance Market Share (2025)
Data shows the projected global market share for different types of ambulances in 2025. Van-based ambulances are expected to lead.
Ambulance Type Illustration
Global Ambulance Market Growth
The global emergency ambulance market is projected to grow significantly in the coming years.
Ambulance Services Market Value
The value of ambulance services market in 2023 and 2024. Shows substantial value and growth.
The Main Types of Ambulances
Type 1 – These are built on truck frames. They have a box in the back for the patient.
Type 2 – These are built using van bodies. They have a raised roof to make more room inside.
Type 3 – These use van chassis but have a special box added to the back.
Let’s see how many of each type are on the roads:
| Type of Ambulance | What It’s Built On | Market Share (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Type 1 | Truck Chassis | Part of 76.9% ground ambulances |
| Type 2 | Van Body | 67.3% of all ambulances |
| Type 3 | Van Chassis with Custom Box | Included in ground ambulance total |
The Market Speaks: Vans Lead the Way
The numbers tell a clear story. Van-style ambulances make up most of the market.
Market Facts You Should Know:
- Van ambulances will make up 67.3% of all emergency ambulances in 2025
- Ground ambulances (all types) will hold 76.9% of market share
- North America leads with 37.1% of the global ambulance market
Why Ambulances Are Growing in Importance
The need for ambulances is getting bigger every year:
- The emergency ambulance market will reach $6.5 billion by 2033
- Growth rate of 5% each year from 2023-2033
- Emergency medical services vehicles growing at 5.2% yearly
This growth happens because:
- More people in the world
- More people living in cities
- More old people needing care
- Higher costs for health care
Safety Concerns: Ambulance Accidents
Ambulances help save lives, but they can also be in accidents:
- Ambulance crashes caused 40 deaths in recent years
- This is less than police vehicles (149 deaths) but more than fire trucks (35 deaths)
This is why Emergency Medical Services must have the best training for drivers.
The Bigger Picture: Related Vehicle Markets
Other vehicles in the same family as ambulances are also growing:
- Cargo van market was worth $109.4 billion in 2024
- Growing at 6.7% yearly between 2025-2034
- Ambulance services market reached $39.33 billion in 2023
Many ambulances use the same parts as Battery-Powered Ambulance Truck models, which helps lower costs.
Global Market Leadership
Different parts of the world use different types of ambulances:
- North America leads with 37.1% of the market
- Europe has strict rules for ambulance design
- Global market will reach $20.81 billion with 3.36% growth from 2024-2032
Van-Style vs Truck-Style: A Closer Look
Why Van-Style Ambulances (Type 2) Are Popular:
- Easier to drive in busy cities
- More gas-saving
- Cheaper to buy and fix
- Can go more places than bigger trucks
Many Mobile Medical Support Vehicles use the van design for these reasons.
Why Truck-Style Ambulances (Type 1) Are Still Needed:
- More room for equipment
- Can carry heavier loads
- Better for long trips
- More stable on rough roads
Tables: The Facts About Ambulances
Ambulance Market Growth by Region
| Region | Market Share (2025) | Growth Trend |
|---|---|---|
| North America | 37.1% | Strong demand |
| Europe | Not specified | Growing due to strict standards |
| Asia | Not specified | Fast growth in developing nations |
Ambulance Accidents Compared to Other Emergency Vehicles
| Vehicle Type | Deaths from Crashes |
|---|---|
| Police Vehicles | 149 |
| Ambulances | 40 |
| Fire Trucks | 35 |
Market Value Projections
| Market Segment | Current Value | Future Projection | Growth Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Emergency Ambulance Vehicles | Not specified | $6.5 billion by 2033 | 5% yearly |
| Ambulance Services | $39.33 billion (2023) | $43.03 billion (2024) | 9% yearly |
| Global Emergency Ambulance Market | Not specified | $20.81 billion by 2032 | 3.36% yearly |
Making the Right Choice: Truck or Van?
When towns and cities buy new ambulances, they must think about:
- Where the ambulance will drive (city or country)
- What kind of patients they will help
- How much equipment they need to carry
- How much money they can spend
The Zero Emission Electric Ambulance is becoming more popular as cities try to be more green.
The Answer to Our Big Question
So, are standard ambulances trucks or vans? The answer is: Most ambulances today are based on vans (Type 2), making up 67.3% of the market. But truck-based ambulances (Type 1) are still very important for certain jobs.
The best type depends on what you need it for. Van ambulances are better in cities. Truck ambulances are better for heavy loads and rough areas.
What This Means for Buyers
If you’re buying an ambulance, think about:
- Van-type for city use and lower costs
- Truck-type for rural areas and more equipment
- Future needs as Medical Emergency Transport changes
Looking to the Future
As cities grow and more people need help, ambulances will keep changing:
- More electric ambulances
- Better safety features
- More tech to help save lives
- Different types for different jobs
Whether built on trucks or vans, the most important thing is that ambulances get people the help they need, fast and safe.
