Listen to this story
Loading audio file, please wait.
speed
1.00 0.25 0.50 0.75 1.00 1.25 1.50 1.75 2.00 The new Type II ambulance debuted at the EMS World Expo in September 2024. (Photo courtesy of AutoFarm Ambulance)
A joint project between two Indiana companies unveiled the new ambulance at the EMS World Expo in Las Vegas earlier this month.
The Type II ambulances, manufactured by Daleville-based Autopharm Ambulance Inc. and Bristol-based Bontrager Industries Inc., focus on safety, reliability and quality, the companies said.
“When it comes to manufacturing and selling ambulances, we are truly in a David vs. Goliath battle, as there are several large consolidation companies of ambulance manufacturers,” Autopharm President Jim Kissling said in a news release. “However, we are confident that we have introduced a superior product at an amazing price. This has not been an easy process, but we take comfort in knowing that David won the battle.”
Type II ambulances are built on a van-type chassis and typically have a raised roof that provides more headroom, unlike the truck-type chassis and driver’s seat common in Type 1 ambulances.
The ambulance collaboration grew out of Kisling’s longtime relationship with Bontrager Industries CEO Jason Bontrager, who was a fraternity member at Butler University.
Autofarm turned to Bontrager, a manufacturer of truck and trailer campers, after experiencing production shortages with its previous supplier.
“Bontrager Industries strives to be the best in the design and manufacturing of every product,” Bontrager said. “Our expansion into the rescue vehicle industry allows us to showcase the highest possible design and manufacturing standards.”
Bontrager Industries’ specialty vehicle brands include High Ground Conversions, High Ground Outfitters, Skinny Guy Campers and what is now called Bontrager Outdoors. The travel trailer manufacturer was known as Braxton Creek RV until it recently rebranded, Inside INdiana Business reported in August.
Founders Jason and Austin Bontrager are cousins and former owners of Jayco, a Middlebury-based RV manufacturer that was acquired by Elkhart-based Thor Industries in 2016.
AutoFarm is a division of AutoFarm Mobility LLC, which also sells wheelchair accessible vehicles, durable medical equipment such as scooters and lift chairs, and used ambulances.
Story continues below
