Jeep Grand Cherokee Donated To The Northwest Air Ambulance

Published: 11th February 2009

The NWAA's Jeep Grand Cherokee

Even bad weather can't stop the Northwest Air Ambulance (NWAA) now. When low cloud, fog or violent thunderstorms stop their helicopter flying the NWAA paramedics simply take to their Jeep Grand Cherokee.

The £30,795 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited model was donated to NWAA by Jeep on Noel's HQ, the Sky 1 TV show where Noel Edmonds rewards selfless generosity.

Federico Goretti, managing director of Chrysler UK Ltd, explained: "When we found out about the great work the air ambulance does in the north west of England we thought it only correct for a socially aware firm like Jeep to help this vital service in any way possible. Noel's HQ told us that the NWAA current rapid response vehicle was in desperate need of replacement."

The result was the Jeep Grand Cherokee 3.0-litre V6 CRD was given to the charity to act as a rapid response vehicle - and that means it's a stand-in helicopter. The NWAA's Ged Jones said: "Our previous vehicle was 15-years old and on its last legs so Jeep's generosity has transformed the way we operate. Our paramedics can now respond to accidents swiftly and safely and provide vital support to patients before the ambulances arrive, even when the helicopter is grounded. This car is literally a life saver and an awesome alternative to the chopper."

Jeep's legendary go-anywhere ability combined with the Grand Cherokee's advanced satellite navigation system means the NWAA's paramedics can attend casualties in remote areas that were inaccessible to their previous vehicle. The Quadra-Trac II four-wheel drive system features Hill Descent Control, Hill Start Assist and traction control making the Jeep a perfect helicopter replacement.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee is also a speedy substitute on the road with a 0-60mph time of nine seconds and a 124mph top speed. The refined diesel engine returns 27.7mpg making it much cheaper to scramble than the £1000 it requires for the air ambulance just to take to the air. And the high level of comfort and standard equipment ensures the two paramedics who 'pilot' the Jeep arrive at accident scenes refreshed and ready for action.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee range starts at £27,095 and has as standard dual-zone air-conditioning, electric front seats, side curtain airbags and 17-inch alloy wheels.