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United Hatzalah launches electric ‘Ambuscooters’ to speed up response time

Pilot program aims to cut medical emergency arrival times in Jerusalem, Tel Aviv and other crowded cities.

The new electric Ambuscooter launched by United Hatzalah, Nov. 20, 2025. Credit: United Hatzalah.
The new electric Ambuscooter launched by United Hatzalah, Nov. 20, 2025. Credit: United Hatzalah.

United Hatzalah has introduced a new fleet of electric medical-response scooters—dubbed “Ambuscooters”—in a pilot project in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv, the organization announced Wednesday.

The ten lightweight scooters are equipped with full emergency medical kits, including defibrillators, and are designed to maneuver through heavy traffic and narrow streets where traditional ambulances and cars often struggle. The goal is to further reduce response times in dense urban areas and help the organization reach medical emergencies within 90 seconds.

“This is how United Hatzalah stays on top of the need to provide quick and free emergency care,” said Eli Beer, president and founder of the volunteer-based group. He noted that parking and congestion in cities like Tel Aviv can cost precious minutes in life-saving situations.

If successful, the pilot will be expanded to additional cities nationwide. United Hatzalah currently operates a fleet that includes ambulances, “Ambucars” and “Ambucycles,” and relies on more than 8,000 volunteers from diverse backgrounds across Israel.

The initiative is funded by private donors committed to enhancing the country’s emergency response capabilities.

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