ASAP - Alternative Support Apparatus Review

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It is described as an All-Terrain Rescue/EMS Vehicle; a small ambulance with big capabilities.

Assembled in Midvale, Ohio, the Alternative Support Apparatus (ASAP) combines the all-terrain capabilities of the Polaris Ranger 6x6 chassis with a fully enclosed patient cabin. This allows patient transport through areas that other larger ambulances would not normally be able to access.

The ASAP is powered by a 40 horsepower twin cylinder gas motor, Polaris Variable Transmission, and an On-Demand 6 wheel drive system.

The patient module is made of aluminum and offers seating for 2 attendants, with extra storage space under the bench seat. Every ASAP comes with a full-size cot-mounting system, which comes in handy when working in conjunction with full-size ambulances to transfer patients.

I had the opportunity to check out one of these mini-ambulances at a recent trade-show in Las Vegas, Nevada. I couldn't help but wonder who is buying these vehicles? I asked Thomas A. Hicks, a representative of ASAP, where this vehicle was meant to operate. His very clear answer was, "Places where you can't get an ambulance."

At 14' long and just over seven and a half feet tall, the ASAP is definitely set-up to get into tight spaces. When it is on the pavement, the ASAP is designed to be used in Urban search situations and inner city rescues. It is able to maneuver through congested areas, such as concerts, convention centers, parking structures and stadiums. In my video report above, you can see how it adapts to off-road circumstances in wildland areas, at beaches, parks, military test-ranges, and even construction sites.

Some of the standard features include a sliding rear window, seatbelts, a rear roll-up door, an IV holder, a Whelen LED lightbar, and a siren. Available options include run-flat tires, chrome wheels, an Onan 2800 Watt generator,750 watt telescoping light, an AC and heating system, a 4000 lb Warn winch, brush guards and even an awning package.

The company recently added another model to the ASAP lineup, called WILDFIRE. It features a skid unit complete with a centrifugal water pump, 150 gallon poly tank, foam capabilities, and a winch, along with a host of other features,all built on the same Polaris Ranger 6x6 chassis.

For more information on the ASAP line of products, visit www.asap911.com.