British Red Cross unveils 2×2 emergency cycles

This month the British Red Cross will roll out a new nationwide fleet of 26 cycles across the UK.

Developed with 2×2 – Land Rover’s bicycle manufacturer – the custom built bikes, or cycle response units (CRU), will be equipped with life saving gear.

British Red Cross first aiders will travel in 13 pairs on the bikes, which have been chosen as they allow them to effectively navigate urban and crowded areas, reaching people faster in times of emergency with life-saving care.

Each CRU is equipped with a defibrillator, advanced first aid kit and resuscitation equipment, enabling first-aiders to respond to incidents swiftly.

"We are absolutely delighted to be able to contribute to the long term support of the British Red Cross in our home market,” said Land Rover UK MD Colin Green. “By installing defibrillators in both the 30 donated vehicles and in these cycle response units, it will significantly enhance the British Red Cross’ ability to treat people at crowded events and areas where vehicle access is limited, whatever the terrain or conditions."

Jason Emanuel is MD of Guy Salmon, Knutsford, where the first pair of CRUs were handed over the Red Cross. He said: "It’s been great seeing the bikes here at Knutsford – knowing they will be helping to save lives right across the UK. By equipping our 2×2 cycles with life-saving equipment means that The British Red Cross is even better prepared for emergencies – especially at the forthcoming Chester races and Tatton Park Triathlon in the north west," added

Richard Hankins, head of First Aid events for the British Red Cross, added: "Land Rover’s support for this project has considerably enhanced our capabilities to get to people much faster and to provide that critical care. This could play a defining factor in survival to a variety of medical emergencies, such as cardiac arrest – whereby it can be the difference of saving a life if treatment can be delivered to the patient within the initial minutes of the arrest."

Land Rover is partnering with the Red Cross in 15 countries.