TERRE HAUTE, Ind – The Terre Haute Fire Department has taken delivery of a new ambulance this week.

The 2018 Ford F 550 Braun Chief XL ambulance from Braun ambulances will go into service in the next few weeks.

It is the first of three ambulances that will replace the current front line trucks.

New to these trucks are Stryker’s Power Load system, which allows crews the ability to load the cot with patient without having to lift the cot into the ambulance.

Officials say that this has been proven to reduce back strain and can reduce injuries to the crew.

The new truck is Medic 7 and will be placed in service at Station 7.

Total cost of the new unit is approximately $300.000. The cost is covered by fees charged to patients insurance companies for service.