When people see a Ford Transit coming towards them it can mean many things; a delivery, the arrival of a tradesperson or a family member returning home. For the people of Bavaria, Germany, it might also mean salvation.
The latest video in Ford’s ‘Lifesavers’ series features the Bavarian Red Cross who use specially converted Ford Transit vans throughout the region. It follows Mike Landfried, an ambulance worker with twelve years of experience, who recounts some of his more unusual callouts and reveals on camera his unique human approach to patients. He also explains the unexpected way he helps process what happens to him on the job; by taking to the stage as stand-up comedian ‘Rescue Mike’.
Mike is just one of the many lifesavers from across Europe who have featured in Ford’s special series of films. Each episode looks to shine a spotlight on the heroism, bravery and sacrifices of the region’s blue light services, many of whom do so as volunteers such is their calling to help others
Red Cross of Germany
The Bavarian Red Cross currently operates 260 specially-converted Ford Transit vans in the public rescue service in Bavaria.
Across Germany they have a total of 468 Ford Transit ambulances in their fleet, spread across different series and model generations. Outside of emergency rescue and emergency doctor vehicles, Ford Transits are used exclusively.
The ‘Lifesavers’ series
In each episode, the Ford video cameras have captured the tough challenges that confront the featured lifesaver as they serve their local communities. The series will include:
Episode 1: Valencia Ambulance Service, Spain - Available now
Episode 2: Nové Mlýny Water Rescue Team, Czech Republic - Available now
Episode 3: Derby Mountain Rescue, UK - Available now
Episode 4: Pompiers 13 Fire Brigade, France - Available now
Episode 5: Bavarian Red Cross, Germany - Available now
Episode 6: Fire Brigade Services, Slovenia - October 11th, 2021
Quotes
“It’s wonderful to help people, but also the patients give me something back, be it only a ‘thank you’. A simple honest ‘thank you’ is something I appreciate.”
Mike Landfried, Bavarian Red Cross, Germany
"The crew and I had covered firefighters, water rescue volunteers and others in previous episodes, focussing on the bravery and heroism they must possess. What struck us most about Mike and the Bavarian Red Cross when we filmed with them was the compassion and empathy they showed. While they face risks along the way I think we were all left Bavaria feeling like we’d met people who had truly found their calling in life."
Jerome Isaac, producer, Ford Lifesavers
Links and Hashtags
For more information on this story please contact Peter Watt (pwatt3@ford.com: +44 1268 401307)
Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F) is a global company based in Dearborn, Michigan, that is committed to helping build a better world, where every person is free to move and pursue their dreams. The company’s Ford+ plan for growth and value creation combines existing strengths, new capabilities and always-on relationships with customers to enrich experiences for and deepen the loyalty of those customers. Ford designs, manufactures, markets and services a full line of connected, increasingly electrified passenger and commercial vehicles: Ford trucks, utility vehicles, vans and cars, and Lincoln luxury vehicles. The company is pursuing leadership positions in electrification, connected vehicle services and mobility solutions, including self-driving technology, and provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. Ford employs about 182,000 people worldwide. More information about the company, its products and Ford Motor Credit Company is available at corporate.ford.com.
is responsible for producing, selling and servicing Ford brand vehicles in 50 individual markets and employs approximately 42,000 employees at its wholly owned facilities and consolidated joint ventures and approximately 55,000 people when unconsolidated businesses are included. In addition to Ford Motor Credit Company, Ford Europe operations include Ford Customer Service Division and 14 manufacturing facilities (10 wholly owned facilities and four unconsolidated joint venture facilities). The first Ford cars were shipped to Europe in 1903 – the same year Ford Motor Company was founded. European production started in 1911.
