Has your ambulance ever shut down suddenly after an alert? No panic. Your fleet manager has likely equipped the vehicle with an anti-idling feature. Demers Ambulances explains how this system works and what it means for you in the field.
What is an anti-idling feature?
An anti-idling system is designed to eliminate unnecessary engine use. Why does this matter? Because when a vehicle sits with the engine running, it continues to burn fuel, creating greenhouse gas emissions, noise, and added operating costs.
The EcoSmart anti-idling feature minimizes these effects by reducing idle time while still powering all the ambulance’s essential systems.
How do anti-idling features impact paramedics’ daily work?
The anti-idling feature operates automatically. There are no settings for paramedics to adjust. Still, it is important to understand how the system behaves so that vehicle responses during standby periods don’t come as a surprise.
Depending on the model, EcoSmart notifications appear either on a touchscreen (MMC-equipped vehicles) or on the traditional control panel. In both cases, the operation is the same: EcoSmart manages engine shutdown and restart based on specific criteria, so paramedics can stay focused on patient care.
Here’s what to expect during a call when your ambulance is equipped with EcoSmart.
When does EcoSmart activate?
Activation criteria
EcoSmart only engages when specific conditions are met, ensuring both safety and operational continuity. The system activates only if all of the following are true:
- Engine is running
- Ignition key is in “ON” position or Anti-Theft mode is active
- Transmission is in Park
- Hood is closed
- Vehicle speed is 0 km/h
- Emergency lights are turned off
Even when these conditions are met, EcoSmart activates only after 7 continuous minutes in Park. Once engaged, the display shows “ECO – A” and a warning sound in the cab alerts you that the engine is about to shut off. On the screen, “–ECO–” will flash to indicate that the anti-idling feature is active.
What happens after anti-idling activation?
EcoSmart system behaviour
Engine shutdown
Once active, EcoSmart monitors two key variables:
- Chassis voltage
- Care module temperature
If both are within defined ranges, an audible signal warns of shutdown and the engine turns off automatically. All ambulance systems powered by the electrical system remain fully functional.
The engine will restart automatically if the interior temperature moves outside the set range.
Voltage and temperature monitoring
In the background, EcoSmart continuously monitors:
- Voltage, to protect the battery and ensure reliable restart. If voltage drops below the minimum threshold, the engine restarts automatically and runs for 10 minutes to recharge.
- Temperature, to maintain a stable environment inside the ambulance. If the interior temperature shifts more than ±4 °C from the baseline, the engine restarts to regulate conditions.
Automatic restart and alerts
If restart criteria are met, EcoSmart enters a restart cycle. The display shows “ECO – E.” Before each automatic restart, a reverse alarm sounds to warn that the engine is about to turn back on.
Once voltage and temperature are stabilized, EcoSmart will stop the engine again if conditions allow.
Operation in Anti-Theft mode
When EcoSmart runs alongside Anti-Theft mode, additional conditions apply:
The target temperature must be set between 20 °C and 24 °C.
At startup, EcoSmart uses the last value saved in memory.
Manual engine restart
To restart the engine manually, simply turn the ignition key. EcoSmart never blocks manual restart.
How to force EcoSmart deactivation?
Note: forced deactivation affects performance and will appear in your fleet manager’s reports. EcoSmart represents an investment by your service to reduce costs and meet sustainability requirements under its government contract. Manual deactivation is intended only for exceptional circumstances.
To deactivate EcoSmart manually, press and hold the Anti-Theft button for one second. Once disabled, EcoSmart remains inactive until the system restarts or the transmission is shifted out of Park.