Greys Anatomy Trades Diesel for Electric Ambulances

In its current season, the long-running medical drama Grey's Anatomy has phased out traditional diesel ambulances in favor of an all-electric model. This significant change, introduced in season 22, is a direct response to concerns over crew and actor exposure to harmful diesel fumes emitted by idling vehicles.

The production team collaborated with electric vehicle manufacturer Rivian to re-outfit a commercial van into a functional ambulance. This eco-friendly upgrade, which took approximately seven months to build and customize, began its prominent feature in episodes starting November 13, 2025. A recent episode, "Strip That Down," showcased seasoned doctors conducting an instructional ride-along in the e-ambulance with first responders.

Showrunner Meg Marinis explained that the creative team had been discussing this transition for years, even resorting to filming ambulance arrivals off-screen to avoid diesel exposure. The initiative gained momentum when Disney's Climate Sustainability Department offered additional funding, which was strategically used for the electric ambulance project. This project aligns with Shondaland's growing emphasis on climate change narratives within its programming.

Production designer John Zachary highlighted that this endeavor aims to raise public awareness about the importance of non-fossil fuel-burning vehicles, noting the scarcity of electric ambulances in the United States. The custom-built e-ambulance features removable panels for easier filming and was modified to disconnect its safety humming sound for production purposes. While not street-legal in its current show configuration, it serves as a model for future real-world ambulance designs, potentially inspiring other TV shows and municipalities.