Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue service has expanded its fleet with 21 new Škoda Kodiaqs.

The fresh batch of SUVs was delivered on Tuesday, June 25, ready to assist in flexible duty officer transport duties.

These SUVs, equipped with a robust 2.0-litre TDI 200 PS engine and an efficient DSG transmission, mark the first time the service is using Škodas.

One of the key reasons for the fire service's choice of Škoda Kodiaqs is their spacious interior, particularly the ample and flexible boot.

The SUV's boot capacity was large enough to accommodate all the equipment essential to the fire officers' duties.

The fleet's preparation for duty was straightforward, as all the Kodiaqs underwent a turnkey conversion directly from Škoda, using its approved converter.

This conversion included adjustments to cater to the fire service's specific requirements, such as practical loading area modifications, fitting of blue lights, and integration of comprehensive communications equipment.

The vehicles are expected to be deployed across various operational functions, such as attending road traffic collisions and hazardous material incidents.

Škoda's Kodiaqs are equipped with all-wheel-drive features, which offer suitable performance, efficiency, and torque.

Colin Carter, fleet operations manager at Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service, said: "We have opted for a fleet of Kodiaqs largely due to the amount of space on offer inside.

"The large boot has enough room for all of the equipment required by our flexible duty fire officers, and the option of having the cars converted by Škoda’s approved converters prior to delivery makes it much easier for us to get the vehicles into service."

Škoda cars have proven to be versatile for emergency services use, and can be specified by Ambulance, Police and Fire and Rescue teams across the UK.

The car manufacturer offers bespoke emergency service conversions, including the integration of emergency services' communications platforms within the infotainment touchscreen and 360-degree lighting, with all individual conversion requirements catered for by Škoda’s approved specialist converters.