The HR-V is on-call 24 hours a day in the greater Brisbane region, for rapid response to emergencies.

Even before it was officially commissioned this week, the HR-V attended its first emergency – a 12-year-old cyclist struck by a vehicle.

Queensland Ambulance Service Area Manager Mr Peter Wood said: "The HR-V is crewed by one officer and it will go to as many emergencies as possible, to stabilise patients before the officer hands over to crews using conventional ambulances.

"It offers a new level of flexibility around the city centre where larger vehicles can sometimes be delayed in heavy traffic. We’re very impressed with its performance."

The HR-V is fitted with an emergency response pack, including intubation equipment for keeping airways open, defibrillator, fluid replacement equipment and a satellite navigation system, to assist the driver in identifying the quickest route to an emergency.

The HR-V also carries a full emergency lighting and siren system. It is operating from ambulance stations in central area Brisbane.

Honda Australia Senior Director Mr Neal Robertson said: "We’re delighted that the HR-V’s size and nimble handling can prove such an asset to an emergency organisation."

The HR-V will be trialled by the Queensland Ambulance Service for 12 months.