The First Ford Ride for Some Americans
Ford recently claimed that 53% of emergency vehicles nationwide wear a Blue Oval badge. That underscores the need for reliable, purpose-built vehicles that can serve the public in critical situations, especially when some are used to respond to childbirth emergencies – and when some babies are even born inside Ford vehicles.
The Dearborn-based automaker said thousands of Americans are born inside ambulances each year, including Christie’s daughter, whose place of birth was later listed simply as “ambulance.” The company said its emergency-vehicle presence reflects the trust it has earned and the responsibility it takes seriously.
Built for the Toughest Calls
Ford offers several vehicles for emergency-response use, including the F-Series Super Duty and the larger F-650 and F-750 medium-duty trucks. The F-750 is the largest of the bunch, making it well-suited for large ambulance upfits that require more rear cabin space for medical crews, equipment, and patients.
These models can be ordered in chassis cab, stripped chassis, or cutaway configurations, giving upfitters greater flexibility when building emergency-response vehicles. The automaker also offers the 6.7-liter Power Stroke turbodiesel V8 across several heavy-duty applications, including a High Output version in Super Duty pickups that produces up to 1,200 lb-ft of torque for heavy hauling and towing.
Ford’s emergency fleet presence goes beyond ambulances, too. Other models are used in public-safety roles, including Broncos deployed for search-and-rescue operations. The Ford Transit is also a practical option for agencies needing generous interior space, though it is not as heavy-duty-oriented as the brand’s pickup-based alternatives.
In the press release, Rich, a firefighter and EMS worker, said, “It was absolutely amazing. Such a cool thing to be a part of – to know that you helped bring a life into the world.”
Rewards for the Front Line
Ford also offers a First Responder Recognition Program, which gives eligible first responders a cash reward toward the purchase or lease of select new Ford or Lincoln vehicles. Buyers need to verify their status through ID.me, receive a certificate, and use it with a participating dealer.
Beyond emergency vehicles, Ford may also be eyeing the military sector again. CEO Jim Farley reportedly said the company is in early talks with the U.S. government on defense-related projects, though no specifics have been announced. The brand has historical ties to military production, including Model T-based transporters, ambulances, and engine manufacturing for military use.
