As a lorry driver of 16 years here in the UK, I am so embarrassed by the way our country drives… 0 awareness, 0 use of mirrors… And I love the looks you give those idiots… I hope they’re looking back at you! Just as well you’re an incredible driver! Cheers for another video!
"We" have complete awareness and use of mirrors... for ourselves (totally serious about the complete self-awareness too, I'm not stretching that beyond snapping point at all). 0 consideration for other people, unless them being harmed would hurt us, of course.
You seem to forget that these cars will be on your tail in no time at all. You can't stare at your mirrors all of the time. Yes i agree that quite a few need to use their mirrors more, but the mass amount of people, do
Also, you forget, there is quite a large portion of people that would think this is an unmarked police car. While they give way to ambulances, they may not want to be so forgiving towards the police
I'm certain some drivers leave their brain at home.I' m a cab driver,and the times I have to guess which way a motorist is going, especially on roundabouts.
@@geoffbentley8774 I drive a Wheelchair Accessible Van, because a taxi driver hit me whilst I was stationary at pedestrian lights. So don’t be telling us no one uses there mirrors & let me tell you you’re not exempt.
I had an interesting encounter today - three actually. I live in Germany, I should say. Today, when driving along, a whole of three times, unmarked police cars came up to me from the rear, and three times I didn't notice them until they were right behind me! Bit embarrassing, actually. Usually I know an emergency vehicle is around seconds before it even comes into view and have a plan ready to make way for it if needed. But the truth of the matter is, those were so bloody silent, you literally couldn't hear them until they were right behind you, breathing up your bumper. Coupled with the much smaller and less efficient blues, that's bloody dangerous if you ask me.
Well there are two things to say about that. First of all depending in your speed you wont be able to hear the sirens when theyre behind you. Secondly it means that you were not focussing on your mirrors enough. Yes unmarked cars are much harder to spot but the flashing blues and the flashing headlights should be easy to see in your mirrors. Most drivers feel like they use their mirrors well but especially on motorways and other long straight roads drivers often wont use their mirrors. Just glance at them every 10 ish seconds and youll be much more aware of whats happening! No judgement, i was not there but thats my experience and often the reason why!
@@user-ie6jr4bg1wI often come across emergency vehicles when driving around town. You don't hear the sirens until they're right next to you, even if they're coming from in front of you. They should mount them externally instead of buried in the engine bays.
I drive an hgv and recently had a Police car pass me on the Motorway. Whilst I had seen him, (I even indicated left and moved to my n/s to show the driver that I had) I could not hear his siren until he was alongside my cab window. The radio was NOT on very loud (level 9, of 32) as I want to hear the SatNav but, modern vehicles are well insulated.
My guess is the difference between "Strobes" and "LED", A lot of the new vehicles seem to be swapping to LED's now, but where-as a "Strobe" projects it light around the vehicles a "LED" does not, I have seen many vehicles using the new LED's both Civilian and EMG and the LED's can be VERY hard to see in daylight (Grill mounted), couple this to the trend lately of muting the sirens (100db instead of 180db?) and it is not the best scenario to have with high speed vehicles.
Sirens are harder to hear because modern vehicles are so well sound proofed against road noise which is louder due to the huge wheels / low profile tyres spec that most have.
Again,, 100% concentration and awareness, knowing what you and your car are capable off,, and to be honest a lot of good responses from the public.. it's a joy to watch..
Great to see that the learner driver was more spacially aware than the driver of the car in front. Yet another example of seeing only one problem/challenge at any one time.
Hi Chris - love watching all these for two reasons...well maybe three! 1) I grew up in Letchworth so know all these roads 2) My dad was a Police class 1 in Hertfordshire so he taught me a lot of the same stuff you use 3) I did lots of night road rallies on some of these roads in the late 70's/early 80's
Nice to see the car out on the first blue light run but I am only 0:12 seconds in and already getting frustrated at the lack of attention others pay to the lights and sirens I am hoping that is the only one in this video and everyone else is behaved 👍 Also hope the car is good for you and compares favourably or the same to the Skoda (I believe it was a Skoda)
I recon maybe the equipment on the Audi isn't quite as noticeable as on fully kitted-out vehicles. I had three encounters with unmarked police cars today, and I literally couldn't hear anything until they were right behind me.
@@joenke9 You could put absolutely tons of decals on that car and it still wouldn’t matter. People have tunnel vision they and they hardly use there mirrors. Or they become scared and don’t know how to react. I always move over no matter what is coming with blues. I try to bounce the curb if it’s safe to do so especially if the driver coming towards me doesn’t pull over. 👍
I like watching your videos, partly because I lived and worked as a Special Constable in the area many years ago and its interesting to see how much its changed.
Great video, Chris. Your new car nice and fast for responses. As for the drivers who pulled out in front of you, they must be completely deaf if they cannot hear your sirens. As for the light pattern, it would be interesting to see how it's all laid out on the new vehicle.
That was interesting; hadn't read your intro above but I thought WOW! that's a stiff ride and was thinking the suspension was rock solid as every wee bump was causing camera shake. But when I watch it back, those wee bumps aren't causing you to jump around, and I thought it must be the mount for the camera...then I read your blurb! 😂
Always a pleasure to watch the videos. I find I learn so much and it helps me in how to be more emergency vehicle aware. I think the Audi sounds great. I wonder if it’s lack of high vis markings compared to the previous car that might be affecting one or two drivers. The sirens seem to be doing the job nicely
I think you may need to review your light pattern or lacking thereof. Seems the side projection isn't enough as well as the front. Being a "covert" vehicle you may need more up front for lighting.
For me as an ammeter driver I also think dark coloured emergency vehicles are a bad idea as they don’t stand out. I also think that possibly people aren’t used to seeing an Audi with blue lights either, or at least where I live anyway. Another professional drive Chris! Safe driving.
@@CovKid2K10 This was discussed in another video. Besides the emergency runs the vehicle is used for normal domestic use as the car is always with the driver who is always on call, not waiting at some station.
Thank you for the video! After watching the previous one where you explained your use of the tone patterns, I found it more enjoyable to follow along. Also, I will never be able to not hear the car's horn when you switch the patterns, I didn't notice it before watching the time explanation video.
Feels full circle assuming you were attending the RTC involving the motorbike the other day! Luckily no major injuries if I remember correctly! Awesome video Chris!
My impression is that this was positively faster than previous runs. Different camera mount, a beefier engine and new tyres. Plenty en route lending a hand.
I was wondering where you saw the fastness. Then I went to check the video of the introduction of the car and I notice it's a full 7 seconds from 0 to 60 and it's a diesel. My last petrol car was 5s 0-60 up to 6 years ago, when I went to 0-60 in a 4,5s car, and now have a 2,6s car. Bit weird this day and age to still go for a diesel, or even petrol. A Tesla Model 3 Performance would have given more storage space, and would be much faster, safer and economical. But obviously, that looks like a fish, and not like a wifi router. Flash pattern is rubbish, with too much dark periods, and the white LEDs don't clue drivers in that an emergency vehicle is approaching. I'd suggest having the top and bottom blues flash alternately, and have the whites flash together with the top blues or something like it. Maybe also fit alternating high beams, which do wonders if you have LED high beams.
lighting pattern definitely needs reviewing in my opinion.. from the short you have showing the pattern alternating between blue and white causes a gap, i'd rather have it left to right etc with a constant blue light flashing in sequence with the white like a normal response setup?
Interesting to see how hard you hit the speed bumps 3/4 of the way through the video, makes me wonder how hard it must be for Ambulance crews running blue back to the hospital with a paramedic and patient in the back, the speed bumps that vehicles can straddle seem a much better option for that very reason
This is interesting to me too, the forces involved to the car suspension components must be huge. I’d be worried about sustaining damage that would reduce handing capability.
Obviously they wont speed over the bumps w a patient in the back. Also ambulances are much heavier and wider therefore they have much less issues w speedbumps etc
I was a blight light ambulance driving & I can tell you that’s happened to me multiple times with a patient in the back. The ambulance has little to no suspension and it’s awful in the back. So annoying that we have to slow down for speed bumps especially with a critically Ill patient in the back. X
I'm guessing the audi is quite a bit faster off the line. Coming from a policing background I know most Traffic Officers will choose a Skoda over an Audi any day of the week. What do you prefer?
@@GeorgeThoughtsNot an officer but over on Pistonheads I think it goes something like “if I have the choice of a 100k mile BMW or a 50K mile Volvo, I am taking the BMW every time”
A true guardian angel. Would love to know what you do on scene. I know it's confidencial info, but it would be nice to know what you do, and the outcome. I hold you in the highest regard, and that from me in London. It's a driving masterclass, and then you have to "Do your stuff" when you get there. It's just mind-boggling 🚑
With that crown on his shoulder he specialises in standing around looking important ;) I joke, Chris is a well respected specialised paramedic in critical care :)
My word, how many drivers are completley unaware of their surroundings, scary 🤨. It must be frustrating, but expect the worse and be happy when it works out. Thank you for the work you do in saving lives 🤘
I am ALWAYS staggered by the SLOW response of the majority of others . Aperthy or chatting or loud music , or on the phone ! We never know what 999 is going to , so we are best out of their way quick .
2:24 This guy looked and did not process fast enough, that this is an emergency vehicle with its lights and siren on. But all the others, well done. Looked like a good drive.
The gaggle of cars and vans pulling up before a tight bend could have been better but it worked out Blue lorry on the roundabout might have seen and slowed a tad sooner as well
I assuming the undertray has been upgraded to full metal (kinda what rally cars have fitted) one to prevent you leaving the sump and oil content on the floor over the speed tables. My was went to shout once (he was a Traffic Sargent with the Met based out of Euston) and had to see why one of this traffic cars had come a grinding halt in the middle of the road. Turned out it had just been serviced and metal undertray hadn't been refitted and they hit a speep hump at speed and promptly left the lower half of the engine all over the road!! He said you could follow the oil trail until you came to the stricken car. Cost the servicing company a lot of money to sort to out!!!!
Amazing Driving Chris, any chance on nxt vid we could see what your new Audi looks like...2 skill at once, being Bad Arse Emergency Driver and also fully qualified NHS technician...❤❤
I'm not sure which Audi model you are running, but an issue I had on my Audi Q5 rescue vehicle back in South Africa (before I moved to the UK) was that the roof of the car is curved such that the light bar sits in a position not parallel to the road, even if attached to the roof rails. So the result is that the forward facing lenses are angles upwards and the rear facing lenses downwards. So when you are approaching vehicles the visible light to them is on the edge of the focal plane and not that bright, and then the rear of the lights is not visible from a distance, which was a nightmare when stopped on highways (motorways). What the resulting fix eventually became was populating the grill with a Christmas tree of light clusters and installing a long dash light across the entire windscreen. Also we ran red and red/white forward facing and red/amber rear facing - which are slightly more visible than blue in daylight.
Nice to see the Audi out but I agree with you on the vehicles pulling out into your path. It also seems that vehicles dead ahead seem to take a little longer to react than I would have expected - sirens and road position is spot on - so either the sirens not projecting forward enough or the lighting sequence is out slightly. Can you do a short showing the lights from the front and 2 o'clock and 10 o'clock please. Curious to see what it looks like - there may be too much overlap in the lights. I enjoy watching the videos and wish some of may old pupils had driven like you on their blue light courses - would have made my job easier. cheers
It is more likely drivers who are utterly oblivious to their surroundings, either that or they simply don't care that they are pulling out on an emergency vehicles with blue lights and sirens.
Really enjoy these videos both for improving my own driving and how to react to emergency vehicles, as well as since I am planning to join the ambulance service within the next few years. Really looking forward to idiots pulling out right in front of me while I'm zooming down a road /s
Based solely on the short you posted of the car, it might just be me but I feel like the pattern needs to be a bit 'faster' in certain areas. Personally find the 'side to side' quite attention grabbing, EG the blues in the top corners of the windscreen being faster and/or a different pattern. But again based on just a short video in the dark and other unmarked I've seen.
Why do they never fit these cars with bull horns or HiLo sirens anymore? when i used to drive with blues i loved the hi lo siren because its basically a wail and phaser mixed together, feel like your lack of awareness from other drivers is probably due to the fact for a few seconds your complete front lighting patten is white which is harder to see especially in day light but also people nowadays don't put two and two together and because they don't see blue lights they think nothing of it! Audi seems to have a lot more power though and the 4WD will come in handy. Back to the lighting, there used to be another responder on TH-cam a few years ago now who had his own car a BMW X5 and his lighting used to flash all white and he had issues too and switched back to blues but with white flashes too so blue and white flashing together, all white will cause you issues as people only check mirrors for a second so all it takes is for them to check mirrors or see you just as your whole front setup is white and they'll miss you, personally would change it to all blues or blue and whites but also get a hi lo siren installed, until you've drove with a hilo and bullhorn you wont know what i mean xD but no its not your driving my honest opinion is your lighting patten is more good for looks than awareness, should get frontlinefleet on it they do amazing work, retired now but would love to respond using rumbler sirens just to see how effective they are compared to standard.
Thanks for the kind words! The setup utilises Standby RSG equipment which is considered up there with the best. The kit is only as good as the installer however. There are clear reasons in daytime for white lighting however the white lights need to be mixed with blue. White lighting travels further and is typically ‘brighter’ but we as drivers are now set to panic stations when we see blue lights and relate them to urgency and the subconscious need to get out of the way The ‘off time’ between flashes here is the main problem. Especially at night. It’s worth considering R65 compliance here and the upcoming changes under S19 of the road traffic act. White lighting is likely to be rendered inoperable in darkness hours. Pair this with the off time between phases and the responder is certainly going to face challenges when driving. Flashes per minute and phase delay may also be a factor here. Just because a product is R65 compliant, doesn’t mean it always is. Many flash patterns aren’t compliant. The harsh flash of full front white is likely to be dangerous to other road users in dark/wet conditions so definitely worth a review. Not every install goes out perfect first time and we have dedicated years to the development of our packages. Triple9 are a relatively new kid on the block with conversions but their commitment to quality components speaks volumes and with feedback from Chris I’m certain that the team can get it right second time round. They certainly aren’t new to the blue light world in general and have worked with other teams to build vehicles that have gone off without a hitch. We wish Chris every success with the installation and commend his fantastic work. The team love watching these videos!
The Audi is quiet, but I prefer the throaty growl of the Skoda when you accelerate hard. Do UK emergency vehicles drive with headlights on? Another instructive video.
JUst teh day before yesterday I saw something akin to that van pulling out at 2:24, but it was an amulance approaching. I was walking toward the junction and saw the driver look left, right, left again before he pulled out.
Nice video. Is the suspension "Audi" firm as it sounded a bit clackety. How does it compare with the VRs ride wise. Why do you have them as "unmarked" rather than "battenburged" up ??? Sorry for all the sub questions. Live in Bedfordshire so know most the the routes you take 🙂
I prefer the marked car over the unmarked, by the time people make out the blue light's it's all to close sometimes. And with the lower setting sun it takes away the flash from the light's being clear LED with a blue light Over a blue LED.
I like the alternate camera angles... I see quite a few steering POV angles on youtube driving videos, maybe you could do that so we can see your steering skills
I spotted earlier today 2 marked police cars that turned out to be electric on second glance. No noise, no grill, but very quick off the line whilst on blues. Out of curiosity, it would be interesting to hear if either Chris or any viewers who are/were responders have opinions on electric vehicles for response purposes? I feel like it can be argued it would be better from a performance standpoint in towns/cities (quick off the line, often lighter/better distribution, no real need for anything faster) but then run into issues with the more open roads where it's more about carrying constant speed
You mentioned perhaps reviewing the lighting since this run was a bit of a struggle for others, you may want to consider mirror lights in my opinion. It's something we're using a LOT here on the other side of the pond - however you also know that we can be pretty overkill with our lighting compared to you guys. I like mirror lights because they provide a good outline of the car while, if synced correctly, providing enough movement of the flashing lights spacially to better catch attention.
Great video as ever, a lot of interesting points as ever. My observation about the light fit is that above the bonnet is it it's too centered? On a blue car (or very dark blue?) with blue reflection's off the paint in sun, people may miss the lights in the centreline of the vehicle. Or it could be you just found all the drivers that don't pay attention!
You can up to a point make the longer "speed tables" less of a bump by slowing as you approach to allow acceleration to get the car to squat a bit, the front suspension will unload a bit and have a bit more travel for the bump and be more comfortable.
Why is it that you use an unmarked vehicle? I understand with like police vehicles it's important whether for surprising suspects with TPAC manouvers and similar, but why as a first responder do you use an unmarked vehicle as I am curious. Thank you :) I do love the videos but just something I have wondered for a while.
I've always wondered how the cars handle speed bumps at higher speeds. Must be hell on the suspension. Do they need replacing more often or are they modified?
2:28 I actually have sympathy for the white van man (controversial, i know!). Look how far away the car is when he starts to pull out 2:24. It's a 40mph section of road and Chris is probably driving at 70mph, so closing him down at almost double the speed the van driver would be expecting. With any normal car the van would be out and driving away before they caught up. I could see Chris was annoyed with him but I think it's a bit unfair on that one and probably his mindset was slightly affected by the radio message just before - trying to remember where the talk stick is on the new car!
I always give a TooT on the Bully for people who really make the effort of moving over. Just a little thank you for their consideration, You can see they appreciate it.👍
There are quite a few times in this video where someone ahead of you has slowed down even when the opposite lane is not clear. Would you advise people keep going at the speed limit in those cases? It's got to be particularly frustrating when the cars in the oncoming lane are also slowing and all anyone is actually doing (despite trying to help) is increasing the time it takes you to get by.
I drive ambulances in Germany and I find that one of the more difficult challenges is to stay calm and not become frustrated because of other drivers. Because in the end, there is no benefit in being frustrated - the other driver won't notice; they didn't even notice my ambo. And on the other hand, you focus less on your driving and get distracted
Looks like the new car is very capable. Out of interest, do your vehicles follow the standard manufacturer servicing schedule? Or do they have additional checks from your fleet department?
2:25, I don't really understand why he (the paramedic) is so annoyed here, he came flying in a 30MPH zone with 70(+)MPH, if I was the van, I don't think I would've been able to react quicker either, you just don't expect a car to come in at these speeds. Keep up the good work though, really like your video's!
If the van driver had looked to their left they would have seen the blue lights and, being a qualified driver, should have waited. Getting annoyed doesn't help but sometimes it can't be helped. Unfortunately for the most part people think they are better driver's than they are.
It doesn't work like that. This guy is a rapid response driver which means he's more skilled at handling a vehicle than your 'normal' driver. "when not on a shout" means they're subject to the same traffic laws as any other driver
There's never even a small fraction of time when no blue lights are illuminated, so it will always show on the images captured by speed cameras that the driver was responding. That wasn't always true though, and there was the chance, albeit pretty slim, that an emergency vehicle on a shout could pass a camera and not show any lights at all in any of the images captured.
![[POV] ENTIRE City BLOCKED For Newborn Emergency Transport](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/QKVWNxihKcs/mqdefault.jpg)
![[POV] ENTIRE City BLOCKED For Newborn Emergency Transport](/img/tr.png)
As a lorry driver of 16 years here in the UK, I am so embarrassed by the way our country drives… 0 awareness, 0 use of mirrors… And I love the looks you give those idiots… I hope they’re looking back at you! Just as well you’re an incredible driver! Cheers for another video!
"We" have complete awareness and use of mirrors... for ourselves (totally serious about the complete self-awareness too, I'm not stretching that beyond snapping point at all).
0 consideration for other people, unless them being harmed would hurt us, of course.
You seem to forget that these cars will be on your tail in no time at all. You can't stare at your mirrors all of the time. Yes i agree that quite a few need to use their mirrors more, but the mass amount of people, do
Also, you forget, there is quite a large portion of people that would think this is an unmarked police car. While they give way to ambulances, they may not want to be so forgiving towards the police
I'm certain some drivers leave their brain at home.I' m a cab driver,and the times I have to guess which way a motorist is going, especially on roundabouts.
@@geoffbentley8774 I drive a Wheelchair Accessible Van, because a taxi driver hit me whilst I was stationary at pedestrian lights. So don’t be telling us no one uses there mirrors & let me tell you you’re not exempt.
The look you gave the van driver was priceless!
Burst out laughing at that.
I had an interesting encounter today - three actually. I live in Germany, I should say. Today, when driving along, a whole of three times, unmarked police cars came up to me from the rear, and three times I didn't notice them until they were right behind me! Bit embarrassing, actually. Usually I know an emergency vehicle is around seconds before it even comes into view and have a plan ready to make way for it if needed. But the truth of the matter is, those were so bloody silent, you literally couldn't hear them until they were right behind you, breathing up your bumper. Coupled with the much smaller and less efficient blues, that's bloody dangerous if you ask me.
Well there are two things to say about that. First of all depending in your speed you wont be able to hear the sirens when theyre behind you. Secondly it means that you were not focussing on your mirrors enough. Yes unmarked cars are much harder to spot but the flashing blues and the flashing headlights should be easy to see in your mirrors. Most drivers feel like they use their mirrors well but especially on motorways and other long straight roads drivers often wont use their mirrors. Just glance at them every 10 ish seconds and youll be much more aware of whats happening! No judgement, i was not there but thats my experience and often the reason why!
@@user-ie6jr4bg1wI often come across emergency vehicles when driving around town. You don't hear the sirens until they're right next to you, even if they're coming from in front of you. They should mount them externally instead of buried in the engine bays.
I drive an hgv and recently had a Police car pass me on the Motorway. Whilst I had seen him, (I even indicated left and moved to my n/s to show the driver that I had) I could not hear his siren until he was alongside my cab window.
The radio was NOT on very loud (level 9, of 32) as I want to hear the SatNav but, modern vehicles are well insulated.
My guess is the difference between "Strobes" and "LED", A lot of the new vehicles seem to be swapping to LED's now, but where-as a "Strobe" projects it light around the vehicles a "LED" does not, I have seen many vehicles using the new LED's both Civilian and EMG and the LED's can be VERY hard to see in daylight (Grill mounted), couple this to the trend lately of muting the sirens (100db instead of 180db?) and it is not the best scenario to have with high speed vehicles.
Sirens are harder to hear because modern vehicles are so well sound proofed against road noise which is louder due to the huge wheels / low profile tyres spec that most have.
i love the look at 0:13- we've all been there even in normal driving :)
Again,, 100% concentration and awareness, knowing what you and your car are capable off,, and to be honest a lot of good responses from the public.. it's a joy to watch..
Great to see that the learner driver was more spacially aware than the driver of the car in front. Yet another example of seeing only one problem/challenge at any one time.
Hi Chris - love watching all these for two reasons...well maybe three! 1) I grew up in Letchworth so know all these roads 2) My dad was a Police class 1 in Hertfordshire so he taught me a lot of the same stuff you use 3) I did lots of night road rallies on some of these roads in the late 70's/early 80's
Nice to see the car out on the first blue light run but I am only 0:12 seconds in and already getting frustrated at the lack of attention others pay to the lights and sirens
I am hoping that is the only one in this video and everyone else is behaved 👍
Also hope the car is good for you and compares favourably or the same to the Skoda (I believe it was a Skoda)
maybe some decals could help people see the car
I recon maybe the equipment on the Audi isn't quite as noticeable as on fully kitted-out vehicles. I had three encounters with unmarked police cars today, and I literally couldn't hear anything until they were right behind me.
Thank you both and I forget that the car is unmarked
@@joenke9 You could put absolutely tons of decals on that car and it still wouldn’t matter. People have tunnel vision they and they hardly use there mirrors. Or they become scared and don’t know how to react. I always move over no matter what is coming with blues. I try to bounce the curb if it’s safe to do so especially if the driver coming towards me doesn’t pull over. 👍
Some removable magnet signs would help
I like watching your videos, partly because I lived and worked as a Special Constable in the area many years ago and its interesting to see how much its changed.
Looks like the sunday drivers were out on this run, great job Chris.
Great video once again. Car seems to be performing very well. I'd love to see a speedo overlay on the video!
Great video, Chris. Your new car nice and fast for responses. As for the drivers who pulled out in front of you, they must be completely deaf if they cannot hear your sirens. As for the light pattern, it would be interesting to see how it's all laid out on the new vehicle.
Always enjoy your runs. Right at the start you did seem to get pulled out on
That was interesting; hadn't read your intro above but I thought WOW! that's a stiff ride and was thinking the suspension was rock solid as every wee bump was causing camera shake. But when I watch it back, those wee bumps aren't causing you to jump around, and I thought it must be the mount for the camera...then I read your blurb! 😂
Always a pleasure to watch the videos. I find I learn so much and it helps me in how to be more emergency vehicle aware. I think the Audi sounds great. I wonder if it’s lack of high vis markings compared to the previous car that might be affecting one or two drivers. The sirens seem to be doing the job nicely
I think you may need to review your light pattern or lacking thereof. Seems the side projection isn't enough as well as the front. Being a "covert" vehicle you may need more up front for lighting.
For me as an ammeter driver I also think dark coloured emergency vehicles are a bad idea as they don’t stand out. I also think that possibly people aren’t used to seeing an Audi with blue lights either, or at least where I live anyway. Another professional drive Chris! Safe driving.
Yes!!! The car should be bright!! Who is clever idea was it to have at midnight blue🤦♂️
@@CovKid2K10 This was discussed in another video. Besides the emergency runs the vehicle is used for normal domestic use as the car is always with the driver who is always on call, not waiting at some station.
Make sure you check the siren pipe is visible in the Lower grill and has direct line of sight to the outdoors and is facing forwards!
Thank you for the video! After watching the previous one where you explained your use of the tone patterns, I found it more enjoyable to follow along. Also, I will never be able to not hear the car's horn when you switch the patterns, I didn't notice it before watching the time explanation video.
Feels full circle assuming you were attending the RTC involving the motorbike the other day! Luckily no major injuries if I remember correctly! Awesome video Chris!
My impression is that this was positively faster than previous runs. Different camera mount, a beefier engine and new tyres. Plenty en route lending a hand.
I was wondering where you saw the fastness. Then I went to check the video of the introduction of the car and I notice it's a full 7 seconds from 0 to 60 and it's a diesel. My last petrol car was 5s 0-60 up to 6 years ago, when I went to 0-60 in a 4,5s car, and now have a 2,6s car.
Bit weird this day and age to still go for a diesel, or even petrol. A Tesla Model 3 Performance would have given more storage space, and would be much faster, safer and economical. But obviously, that looks like a fish, and not like a wifi router.
Flash pattern is rubbish, with too much dark periods, and the white LEDs don't clue drivers in that an emergency vehicle is approaching. I'd suggest having the top and bottom blues flash alternately, and have the whites flash together with the top blues or something like it. Maybe also fit alternating high beams, which do wonders if you have LED high beams.
lighting pattern definitely needs reviewing in my opinion.. from the short you have showing the pattern alternating between blue and white causes a gap, i'd rather have it left to right etc with a constant blue light flashing in sequence with the white like a normal response setup?
Interesting to see how hard you hit the speed bumps 3/4 of the way through the video, makes me wonder how hard it must be for Ambulance crews running blue back to the hospital with a paramedic and patient in the back, the speed bumps that vehicles can straddle seem a much better option for that very reason
This is interesting to me too, the forces involved to the car suspension components must be huge. I’d be worried about sustaining damage that would reduce handing capability.
Obviously they wont speed over the bumps w a patient in the back. Also ambulances are much heavier and wider therefore they have much less issues w speedbumps etc
I was a blight light ambulance driving & I can tell you that’s happened to me multiple times with a patient in the back. The ambulance has little to no suspension and it’s awful in the back. So annoying that we have to slow down for speed bumps especially with a critically Ill patient in the back. X
Mybe special suspension
I work in London and to be fair I rarely if ever speed with a patient in the back.
I'm guessing the audi is quite a bit faster off the line. Coming from a policing background I know most Traffic Officers will choose a Skoda over an Audi any day of the week. What do you prefer?
Totally agree with you there 👍
What Audi is it? I miss the sound of the skoda even if its artificial
What do officers think of the influx of Volvo into Traffic Policing? :D
@@GeorgeThoughtsNot an officer but over on Pistonheads I think it goes something like “if I have the choice of a 100k mile BMW or a 50K mile Volvo, I am taking the BMW every time”
@@P1Fanaticmost officers I know love the Volvos because they feel much safer when making contact in persuits
Great first drive Chris, silky smooth as always !! Stay safe out there
A true guardian angel. Would love to know what you do on scene. I know it's confidencial info, but it would be nice to know what you do, and the outcome. I hold you in the highest regard, and that from me in London. It's a driving masterclass, and then you have to "Do your stuff" when you get there.
It's just mind-boggling 🚑
With that crown on his shoulder he specialises in standing around looking important ;) I joke, Chris is a well respected specialised paramedic in critical care :)
My word, how many drivers are completley unaware of their surroundings, scary 🤨. It must be frustrating, but expect the worse and be happy when it works out. Thank you for the work you do in saving lives 🤘
I am ALWAYS staggered by the SLOW response of the majority of others . Aperthy or chatting or loud music , or on the phone ! We never know what 999 is going to , so we are best out of their way quick .
Try not having flashing lights and sirens on your car. Human drivers suck.
2:24 This guy looked and did not process fast enough, that this is an emergency vehicle with its lights and siren on.
But all the others, well done. Looked like a good drive.
The gaggle of cars and vans pulling up before a tight bend could have been better but it worked out
Blue lorry on the roundabout might have seen and slowed a tad sooner as well
Full respect as always Chris.
Nice work. Still too many people who don't look behind them, and who don't hear the sirens! I can't believe the drivers who pull out in front of you!
Why is the car unmarked?
Couldn't find anything online on google :/ and I'm so curious, since it isn't even a police car
It’s his take-home car. He’s on call
So looking forward to you doing a video showing the blue light set-up on the Audi, Chris.
Hi love your videos was wondering if your available for school runs at all 😃
Nice driving! I recognised that bit of Bedfordshire from my old job at 3:28
I assuming the undertray has been upgraded to full metal (kinda what rally cars have fitted) one to prevent you leaving the sump and oil content on the floor over the speed tables. My was went to shout once (he was a Traffic Sargent with the Met based out of Euston) and had to see why one of this traffic cars had come a grinding halt in the middle of the road. Turned out it had just been serviced and metal undertray hadn't been refitted and they hit a speep hump at speed and promptly left the lower half of the engine all over the road!! He said you could follow the oil trail until you came to the stricken car. Cost the servicing company a lot of money to sort to out!!!!
Are you going to give us a video / sound tour of the new car and its blues and twos?!
Yes will do.
Great video as always chris and a professional drive to
Lovely, would love a look at that Audi, may have missed a video if there was one ❤
Great video as always Chris, i did see you on helicopter medics the other evening
3:21 Bouncing up the kerb like that can't be good for that Fiesta!
Audi sounds amazing and looks fast. Also keep up the good work with both these videos and the NHS/Police work!
Police?
Police?
I'd be very surprised if he had time to moonlight as a copper.
He was a police officer I think
Amazing Driving Chris, any chance on nxt vid we could see what your new Audi looks like...2 skill at once, being Bad Arse Emergency Driver and also fully qualified NHS technician...❤❤
I'm not sure which Audi model you are running, but an issue I had on my Audi Q5 rescue vehicle back in South Africa (before I moved to the UK) was that the roof of the car is curved such that the light bar sits in a position not parallel to the road, even if attached to the roof rails. So the result is that the forward facing lenses are angles upwards and the rear facing lenses downwards. So when you are approaching vehicles the visible light to them is on the edge of the focal plane and not that bright, and then the rear of the lights is not visible from a distance, which was a nightmare when stopped on highways (motorways).
What the resulting fix eventually became was populating the grill with a Christmas tree of light clusters and installing a long dash light across the entire windscreen.
Also we ran red and red/white forward facing and red/amber rear facing - which are slightly more visible than blue in daylight.
Nice to see the Audi out but I agree with you on the vehicles pulling out into your path. It also seems that vehicles dead ahead seem to take a little longer to react than I would have expected - sirens and road position is spot on - so either the sirens not projecting forward enough or the lighting sequence is out slightly. Can you do a short showing the lights from the front and 2 o'clock and 10 o'clock please. Curious to see what it looks like - there may be too much overlap in the lights.
I enjoy watching the videos and wish some of may old pupils had driven like you on their blue light courses - would have made my job easier.
cheers
It is more likely drivers who are utterly oblivious to their surroundings, either that or they simply don't care that they are pulling out on an emergency vehicles with blue lights and sirens.
You're back with NHS? We're sure glad to have you back then that's for sure!
He never left?
@@findthebadger418 Cool! I thought he went to BHECCS - But now looking at it it's actually a volunteer scheme!😁
Chris. Can we see the light set up on the Audi like you did with the Octavia.
Really enjoy these videos both for improving my own driving and how to react to emergency vehicles, as well as since I am planning to join the ambulance service within the next few years. Really looking forward to idiots pulling out right in front of me while I'm zooming down a road /s
Based solely on the short you posted of the car, it might just be me but I feel like the pattern needs to be a bit 'faster' in certain areas. Personally find the 'side to side' quite attention grabbing, EG the blues in the top corners of the windscreen being faster and/or a different pattern. But again based on just a short video in the dark and other unmarked I've seen.
Why do they never fit these cars with bull horns or HiLo sirens anymore? when i used to drive with blues i loved the hi lo siren because its basically a wail and phaser mixed together, feel like your lack of awareness from other drivers is probably due to the fact for a few seconds your complete front lighting patten is white which is harder to see especially in day light but also people nowadays don't put two and two together and because they don't see blue lights they think nothing of it! Audi seems to have a lot more power though and the 4WD will come in handy.
Back to the lighting, there used to be another responder on TH-cam a few years ago now who had his own car a BMW X5 and his lighting used to flash all white and he had issues too and switched back to blues but with white flashes too so blue and white flashing together, all white will cause you issues as people only check mirrors for a second so all it takes is for them to check mirrors or see you just as your whole front setup is white and they'll miss you, personally would change it to all blues or blue and whites but also get a hi lo siren installed, until you've drove with a hilo and bullhorn you wont know what i mean xD but no its not your driving my honest opinion is your lighting patten is more good for looks than awareness, should get frontlinefleet on it they do amazing work, retired now but would love to respond using rumbler sirens just to see how effective they are compared to standard.
Thanks for the kind words! The setup utilises Standby RSG equipment which is considered up there with the best. The kit is only as good as the installer however.
There are clear reasons in daytime for white lighting however the white lights need to be mixed with blue. White lighting travels further and is typically ‘brighter’ but we as drivers are now set to panic stations when we see blue lights and relate them to urgency and the subconscious need to get out of the way
The ‘off time’ between flashes here is the main problem. Especially at night. It’s worth considering R65 compliance here and the upcoming changes under S19 of the road traffic act. White lighting is likely to be rendered inoperable in darkness hours. Pair this with the off time between phases and the responder is certainly going to face challenges when driving. Flashes per minute and phase delay may also be a factor here. Just because a product is R65 compliant, doesn’t mean it always is. Many flash patterns aren’t compliant.
The harsh flash of full front white is likely to be dangerous to other road users in dark/wet conditions so definitely worth a review.
Not every install goes out perfect first time and we have dedicated years to the development of our packages. Triple9 are a relatively new kid on the block with conversions but their commitment to quality components speaks volumes and with feedback from Chris I’m certain that the team can get it right second time round. They certainly aren’t new to the blue light world in general and have worked with other teams to build vehicles that have gone off without a hitch.
We wish Chris every success with the installation and commend his fantastic work. The team love watching these videos!
To those enquiring, it looks to be an Audi A4 Black Edition Saloon. Very nice vehicle indeed!
Black not being the best colour for a fast responder medical unit.
The Audi is quiet, but I prefer the throaty growl of the Skoda when you accelerate hard. Do UK emergency vehicles drive with headlights on? Another instructive video.
2:30 must have activated abs breaking that hard, the death stare after though 😅
JUst teh day before yesterday I saw something akin to that van pulling out at 2:24, but it was an amulance approaching. I was walking toward the junction and saw the driver look left, right, left again before he pulled out.
Nice video. Is the suspension "Audi" firm as it sounded a bit clackety. How does it compare with the VRs ride wise. Why do you have them as "unmarked" rather than "battenburged" up ??? Sorry for all the sub questions. Live in Bedfordshire so know most the the routes you take 🙂
I prefer the marked car over the unmarked, by the time people make out the blue light's it's all to close
sometimes. And with the lower setting sun it takes away the flash from the light's being clear LED with a blue light
Over a blue LED.
2:54 you missed the Truck Driver giving a wave. Front cam is a little shaky or the road was really bad
Can we get a look at the outside of it in the future?
When it is possible, would you be able to show us the new light feature on your new Aldi?
Hi Chris, will you be getting this audi reflective hazard wrap livery or keep it plain? Thanks for all you do! 👍😁
That Audi is very sporty!!!!
I like the alternate camera angles... I see quite a few steering POV angles on youtube driving videos, maybe you could do that so we can see your steering skills
@chris Martin, Does it handle well on the Road? & how Does it compare to the Skoda I believe you had please. Ty
I spotted earlier today 2 marked police cars that turned out to be electric on second glance. No noise, no grill, but very quick off the line whilst on blues. Out of curiosity, it would be interesting to hear if either Chris or any viewers who are/were responders have opinions on electric vehicles for response purposes? I feel like it can be argued it would be better from a performance standpoint in towns/cities (quick off the line, often lighter/better distribution, no real need for anything faster) but then run into issues with the more open roads where it's more about carrying constant speed
Some of the senior Officer vehicles in LAS are now electric
You mentioned perhaps reviewing the lighting since this run was a bit of a struggle for others, you may want to consider mirror lights in my opinion. It's something we're using a LOT here on the other side of the pond - however you also know that we can be pretty overkill with our lighting compared to you guys. I like mirror lights because they provide a good outline of the car while, if synced correctly, providing enough movement of the flashing lights spacially to better catch attention.
Not allowed to cause cosmetic damage to lease vehicles - so no drilling holes
Great video as ever, a lot of interesting points as ever.
My observation about the light fit is that above the bonnet is it it's too centered? On a blue car (or very dark blue?) with blue reflection's off the paint in sun, people may miss the lights in the centreline of the vehicle. Or it could be you just found all the drivers that don't pay attention!
Nice run - seems to have more oomph than the VRS. As for the two drivers, I think you just encountered a couple of chancers.
Does going over speed humps that fast not damage the car? Or am I taking them too slowly 😅
You can up to a point make the longer "speed tables" less of a bump by slowing as you approach to allow acceleration to get the car to squat a bit, the front suspension will unload a bit and have a bit more travel for the bump and be more comfortable.
We wana see a tour of the car !
Why is it that you use an unmarked vehicle? I understand with like police vehicles it's important whether for surprising suspects with TPAC manouvers and similar, but why as a first responder do you use an unmarked vehicle as I am curious. Thank you :) I do love the videos but just something I have wondered for a while.
I've always wondered how the cars handle speed bumps at higher speeds. Must be hell on the suspension. Do they need replacing more often or are they modified?
2:28 I actually have sympathy for the white van man (controversial, i know!). Look how far away the car is when he starts to pull out 2:24. It's a 40mph section of road and Chris is probably driving at 70mph, so closing him down at almost double the speed the van driver would be expecting. With any normal car the van would be out and driving away before they caught up.
I could see Chris was annoyed with him but I think it's a bit unfair on that one and probably his mindset was slightly affected by the radio message just before - trying to remember where the talk stick is on the new car!
I always give a TooT on the Bully for people who really make the effort of moving over. Just a little thank you for their consideration, You can see they appreciate it.👍
There are quite a few times in this video where someone ahead of you has slowed down even when the opposite lane is not clear. Would you advise people keep going at the speed limit in those cases? It's got to be particularly frustrating when the cars in the oncoming lane are also slowing and all anyone is actually doing (despite trying to help) is increasing the time it takes you to get by.
Don't know what audi you've bought/leased, but the Octavia VRS looks like much more of a fun drive.....
Cool as a cucumber, fantastic to watch. Respect.
What model Audi is this please Chris mate?
Audi A4 tfsi I believe
What do you think Chris? What are your first impressions of the new car. I'm looking forward to a walk around of it.
I drive ambulances in Germany and I find that one of the more difficult challenges is to stay calm and not become frustrated because of other drivers.
Because in the end, there is no benefit in being frustrated - the other driver won't notice; they didn't even notice my ambo. And on the other hand, you focus less on your driving and get distracted
Amazing work 👏
The Audi is doing very well.
How do you find the audi compared to the skoda personally? Sirens sound like they project more imo.
what is the new car tho ?
@@not-yourbusiness it's either an Audi A4 or A6 judging by photos he posted. More likely the A6 like police have started to use as traffic cars.
@@S666GRJhe isn’t police.
@@Horizon301.I know he isn't. I was using traffic cars in comparison as he didn't state which Audi it is....
@@S666GRJ ah i see. It’s an A4 saloon, black edition from what I have found
Suspension looks firmer, learning its gates and exits over the first few runs ?
Chris you really need to get front X light setup on that vehicle given the very urgent nature of your jobs
Love the videos! Suggestion: Could you add a speedometer somewhere on the screen? It just makes it more awesome haha
Bad idea
Looks like the new car is very capable. Out of interest, do your vehicles follow the standard manufacturer servicing schedule? Or do they have additional checks from your fleet department?
2:25, I don't really understand why he (the paramedic) is so annoyed here, he came flying in a 30MPH zone with 70(+)MPH, if I was the van, I don't think I would've been able to react quicker either, you just don't expect a car to come in at these speeds. Keep up the good work though, really like your video's!
If the van driver had looked to their left they would have seen the blue lights and, being a qualified driver, should have waited. Getting annoyed doesn't help but sometimes it can't be helped.
Unfortunately for the most part people think they are better driver's than they are.
3:19 Props to the people going out of their way to get out of the way
Great drive and fantastic quality footage in this one - new dashcam ?
Getting routed through the utter shambles that is Henlow Camp / Stondon at the moment must make your heart sink.
0:12 prat of the week award goes to - mr didnt look or didnt care
Can we get a tour of the new car please?
Question - the people mounting the kerb at 3mins19seconds in - are they not breaking the law?
I like the quality of the cameras in this one! What Audi did you get? Looked a bit like a Q?
It’s an A4 😊
I'm interested to know why the black and not marked up with high visibility livery. I know it's a lease but would a wrap make it more visable?
How is it when your hitting potholes or bumps in the road. Doesn’t look as sturdy as the VRS ??
Good on that fiesta I wouldn’t have mounted that kerb lol
Do you get to do some fast driving when not on a shout to get used to the new car?
It doesn't work like that. This guy is a rapid response driver which means he's more skilled at handling a vehicle than your 'normal' driver. "when not on a shout" means they're subject to the same traffic laws as any other driver
Grate work. Question who
get the fine wen your flashed?
It is checked by the DVSA, and if it is proved that he was responding to a shout at the time, the fine is voided
@@tedh thanks for the quick response
There's never even a small fraction of time when no blue lights are illuminated, so it will always show on the images captured by speed cameras that the driver was responding. That wasn't always true though, and there was the chance, albeit pretty slim, that an emergency vehicle on a shout could pass a camera and not show any lights at all in any of the images captured.
2:24 all that van driver saw was the green light at the temp traffic lights. Shocking observations.
Legend!