EVALUATION OF A MULTIPURPOSE RURAL VEHICLE : FINAL REPORT

This report presents the results of a twenty month in-service evaluation of a multi-purpose rural vehicle designed to transport elderly and disabled persons and to operate as an emergency vehicle when required. The objective was to evaluate the feasibility of the multipurpose concept, system operation, vehicle performance, ergonomics and user acceptance. It was found that the concept is valid and would be applicable to communities which do not have emergency services within a thirty minute radius. The report recommends several short term and long term modifications to the prototype, including a substantial re-design of the front entrance and vehicle interior.