Ambulances by Type

Browse Crestline's industry-leading ambulances by type.

The Crestline product range is driven by Type 3 ambulances in Canada. However, our Saskatoon facility produces thousands of Type 1 ambulances for the United States and international markets. As one of the leading ambulance manufacturers in the world, we are committed to pursuing our product development while investing in feature enhancement.

Type 1

Type 1 ambulances are mounted on truck chassis. They are the most popular type sold in the United States and other countries with rough terrain. These workhorse ambulances are game changers in first-response situations, as they are designed for high performance in rugged environments.

Type 2

Van-based (Type 2) ambulances are in rising demand. More affordable and less fuel-consuming, Type 2 ambulances are attractive for emergency services located in congested urban centers and/or focused on inter-hospital medical transportation.

Type 3

Type 3 ambulances are mounted on a cutaway chassis. They are the most popular type among Canadian emergency services in both rural and urban areas. Find the balance between vehicle performance, care module capacity, and total cost of ownership.

Know the difference between a Type 1 vs a Type 3 ambulance.

How to recognize a Type 1 vs a Type 3 ambulance is one of the most frequently asked questions. Whether you’re new to the industry, looking to purchase a new ambulance, or just curious about emergency vehicles, here is how to spot the distinction. Focus on the structure to learn how to identify the subtle difference.

  • On Type 1 ambulances, there is a space between the chassis cab and the care module.
  • On Type 3 ambulances, the module seamlessly connects to the cab.
Type 1 Type 3
Type 1 Type 3

Type 1 ambulances are mounted on truck chassis. The pickup-style chassis is self-contained; it has its own back wall. Because of this, the connection with the ambulance case module is not as large or as easily done as a Type 3. Instead, a little window generally connects the chassis cab to the care module. This is called a pass-through. 

Type 3 ambulances are mounted on cutaway chassis. When the chassis manufacturer delivers a cutaway chassis, it has a wide-open cab behind the front seats. This allows us, the ambulance manufacturer, to completely integrate the care module into the front cab. Specifically, we install a larger window or even a door between the cabin and the module to ease the communication between the paramedics and the driver. 

Beyond the aesthetic and ergonomic considerations, the chassis type differences also impact the vehicle’s general characteristics.

Truck chassis are more robust, and the engine is more powerful. Therefore, the load capacity of Type 1 ambulances is much higher. Type 1 ambulance modules generally feature a larger care module with more storage space for supplies and equipment. This makes them a preferred choice for paramedics to carry out their life-saving missions.

Since truck chassis are more robust and the engine is more powerful, the load capacity of Type I is much higher. This aspect allows us to offer ambulances with a larger care module, with more storage space to allow paramedics to carry even more equipment for their missions.

Contact us if you have additional questions regarding a Type 1 vs a Type 3 ambulance. We’ll be happy to educate you further and provide direction on the right type for your service.