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Medibus wins German Mobility Award 2019: recognition for good cooperation and a unique concept

A mobility solution that contributes to greater participation and quality of life in Germany. The jury praised the Medibus, winner of the prestigious German Mobility Award 2019. The mobile medical practice is an innovative project of Deutsche Bahn, built by VDL Bus & Coach. The prize was awarded to initiator Deutsche Bahn yesterday evening, 27 November, by the German Minister of Transport and Digital Infrastructure.  

The Medibus was built by VDL Bus Venlo in cooperation with VDL Bus Heerenveen and VDL Bus Chassis. The interior of the Citea LLE-127 was designed entirely according to the wishes of the customer, Deutsche Bahn. The 12.7 metre variant is the longest version of this type. “We are very proud to be part of this project,” said Mark Francot, Managing Director of VDL Bus Venlo. 

“It is not just recognition for good cooperation within VDL Bus & Coach, but also for the development of a unique concept. The delivered concept was custom-made, down to the smallest details. The Deutsche Bahn Medibus is a solution to an important social issue in Germany. It is wonderful that VDL Bus & Coach can be a part of that. The concept is a success: we have already received three new orders.” 

Societal challenge
With its mobile medical practice, Deutsche Bahn is responding to the challenges of an ageing society and a lack of doctors in training. Through this initiative they have found an innovative way to improve access to the medical infrastructure. Particularly elderly people living outside urban areas are having difficulty finding their way to the nearest doctor. 

The bus is fully configured as a GP practice and has four rooms complete with cabinets and furniture. The consultation room, treatment room, waiting room and laboratory are all equipped with air conditioning. Thanks to the IT infrastructure from technology company Cisco, telemedicine is available in the Medibus. If desired, the attending physician can consult a specialist by videoconference. A large awning has been fitted to the side of the bus to provide an additional waiting area on location if necessary. 

Unique cooperation
“I am very proud that our Medibus has received the German Mobility Award and congratulate our dedicated employees who have put their heart and soul into this project,” said Berthold Huber, Deutsche Bahn board member for passenger transport. “Medibus is a joint project that transcends company boundaries. Without the competence and commitment of our partners Cisco and VDL Bus & Coach, the Medibus simply would not have come to be.” 

German Mobility Award
About 270 start-ups, companies, associations and research institutes submitted their projects for the prestigious German Mobility Award 2019. The theme was ‘Intelligence on the road: moving people – connecting living spaces’. An expert jury selected the ten award-winning projects. The award ceremony took place in Berlin and was attended by the Minister of Transport and Digital Infrastructure.

28. listopadu 2019