Double Crewed Ambulance Base Vehicle mini framework
Framework Description
The East of England NHS Collaborative Procurement Hub's Double Crewed Ambulance Base Vehicle mini framework gives ambulance trusts a direct-award route to buy the base vehicles that are converted into frontline double crewed ambulances. It sits under the Government Commercial Agency's RM6244 agreement and runs to 14 August 2028. Lots cover panel vans and lightweight chassis; the electric vehicle lot expired on 14 January 2026.
Context & Use Case
Ambulance trusts use the mini framework in fleet replacement programmes, buying a standard base vehicle that a converter then fits out as a double crewed ambulance. Direct award shortens lead times and helps keep a consistent base vehicle platform across the ambulance sector, which simplifies training, maintenance and conversion design.
Scope of Services
Lot 1: Panel van base vehicles Lot 2: Lightweight chassis base vehicles Lot 3: Electric vehicle (expired 14 January 2026)
Lots
Lot 1: Panel van; Lot 2: Light weight chassis; Lot 3: Electric vehicle (expired 14/01/2026)
Who Can Apply
Only vehicle manufacturers already appointed under the Government Commercial Agency's RM6244 agreement can take part; the appointed suppliers are Fiat Chrysler Automobiles UK, Ford Motor Company and MAN Truck & Bus UK. Other manufacturers would need a place on the replacement GCA agreement, RM6382.
Buyer Benefits
Ambulance trusts get a fast, compliant way to order base vehicles for replacement programmes, with standard specifications that reduce the work of designing and approving conversions. Shared purchasing across trusts also supports better pricing and consistency in the national ambulance fleet.
Next Steps
Appointed manufacturers should keep build slots, lead times and pricing current for trust orders until 14 August 2028. Manufacturers and dealers that want to supply ambulance base vehicles should look at RM6382, whose Lot 8 covers ambulance light and medium commercial vehicles from 29 November 2026. Converters should follow trust replacement programmes for conversion contracts.
How Athena Can Help
Entry here depends on the Government Commercial Agency's vehicle agreements, so Athena would plan your route through them. Our framework timing advice tracks when RM6382 and related vehicle frameworks are procured and prepares your application.
For ambulance conversion and fleet tenders that trusts run themselves, our ambulance tender advice provides bid/no-bid advice, and our tender pricing and writing support helps you submit a compliant, competitive bid that is written to the trust's evaluation criteria.
