Ford's new Police pursuit vehicles launched

Ford has recently released its new Police Interceptor pursuit-rated vehicle, the company’s first specially-designed SUV for police work. The new model complements the new Police Interceptor sedan, introduced earlier this year.

Both models will debut simultaneously and be offered without interruption when production of the Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor ends at the company’s plant in St. Thomas, Ontario in late 2011. The new models are built in Chicago.

 

“We understand today’s police departments require adaptability,” said Mark Fields, Ford’s president of The Americas. “Ford is committed to remaining the nation’s largest provider of police vehicles, and we’re offering law enforcement officials a complete portfolio of options that are purpose-built, capable and delivered with the safety, technology and performance they need to excel at their jobs.”

The new Police Interceptor utility vehicle uses a 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering at least 280 horsepower, with a unique six-speed automatic transmission for improved off-the-line acceleration with improved efficiency when cruising. Ford said it will deliver at least 20 per cent more fuel efficiency than the 4.6-litre V8 currently offered in the Crown Victoria.

The utility vehicle includes a water-cooled power transfer unit for the all-wheel drive system, larger brakes, heavy-duty alternator, larger radiator, and curve control technology, which can apply four-wheel smart braking to reduce vehicle speed if the system determines that a curve is being taken too fast.