The vehicle, showcased during a brief unveiling at Trinity’s ambulance station on Wednesday, represents an investment in both safety and accessibility for patients throughout north central North Dakota.

With the help of community partners, donors and the Trinity Health Foundation, $250,000 was raised to purchase the new ambulance, which is four-wheel drive — designed to perform in the harsh winter conditions and rural terrain common in the Minot area.

This is Trinity’s second four-wheel drive ambulance. Trinity EMS officials said the upgrade ensures reliable response times regardless of weather or road conditions.

The ambulance also comes equipped with a lift, which greatly increases the safety of both the patients and EMS staff.

Trinity Health currently operates eight ground ambulances, each typically staffed by a two-person crew.

Ground EMS services cover a wide area surrounding Minot, including both urban and rural communities, in coordination with the health system’s air ambulance program.