This Ford E-350 Ambulance was built in Ohio in 1981 (before the "FORD" lettering on the hood was replaced by the Blue Oval on the grille, in 1983). It was previously used as an ambulance in the city of Luna Pier, Michigan. They only put 24,600 miles on it!  

Considering the vehicle’s age, the E-350 Ambulance is generally in good mechanical condition with some rust on door panels, but virtually none on the chassis. 

With a curb weight of 9,460 LBS, the chassis is equipped with Ford's optional big block, 7.5L, 460CID, 197HP V8 coupled to a standard three-speed automatic transmission. 

Both power brake booster and master cylinder are new and were replaced 2 months ago. 

They should be adequate as long as discs, pads, drums, wheel cylinders and brake lines are in good shape. 

In April 2021, Mack bought the truck and ultimately wants to convert it to a camper for weekends, leisure, and off-road. 

There are 4 reasons why he is now ready to take the leap: 

• Improve fuel economy. Mack is not a big fan of 8MPG. 
• Reduce emissions as it has no catalytic converter and spews fumes, 
• Prove that it is possible, 
• Engage some of his students with the project.

Plug-in Hybrid or Full EV? 

Mack has considered both setups: “I thought it would be more interesting to find a way to integrate with the existing components and a way to use what is already there, however, I am also open to the idea of full EV, I haven't seen anyone take on a project such as this with an ambulance which is also one of the other drives that makes me want to complete it”. 

He describes himself as a do-it-yourself type of person, who as long as he receives support and advice, is would be comfortable with large projects. 

Because of curb weight, rolling resistance, and aerodynamic drag, a full EV conversion would require a substantially larger power plant raising conversion cost drastically. 

Considering that the actual engine runs, a plug-in hybrid with regenerative braking would be the most economical and conservative option. Series hybrid approach or a parallel system must be determined.

Mack is not only an enthusiast, he’s a teacher: ”At my school, we have an innovation scholars program where students involved with our maker space take on large projects that demonstrate engineering, design, and project management, and I think this would be a great project they could help with over a summer or long term semester.”  This may start the EV conversion ball rolling with other potential project vehicles on campus. 

Mack would like the vehicle to be as powerful as it is today with a top speed of 70 MPH, a range of 130-170 miles (30 miles on electric), and a medium-speed charging station from work. 

For the conversion, he wants to use as many used parts as possible and be actively involved in most of the conversion. 

Mack’s Ambulance project may give us headaches but we love unique challenges.

Upon completion of EV conversion, Mack is interested in other improvements that may be deemed necessary such as mechanics, electronics, painting, or other functional/cosmetic equipment. When finished he will parade at the "Golden Super Cruise", in the summers of Golden, CO with other 100-200 classic cars.