Ford continuing launch schedule of new police-spec vehicles

Ford's new Police Interceptor // Source: autoshopper.com

Ford is continuing its impressive launch schedule, and after it has revealed the all new 2011 Explorer SUV as well as the new, Taurus-based Police Interceptor cop car, it has also presented the new police-spec SUV, the Police Interceptor Utility model.

Vlad Balan reports that the model is based on the new Explorer SUV, and is equipped with all of the equipment a modern police officer needs. Most of these technologies and accessories were already seen on the Police Interceptor sedan, but the Utility model also packs a few new things.

“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 will use the top of the range 3.5-liter V6 engine with Ti-VCT technology. It will deliver 280 HP and is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. Police departments across the USA will be able to order it in either front- or all-wheel drive.

The outside of this police-spec Explorer was customized with light bars on top and in the grille, as well as a bull bar in the front, designed to help in taking down suspect cars. 18-inch steel wheels are also featured by the SUV.

Balan writes that on the inside, Ford has fitted new seats, with more room in the lower section, so that an officer’s utility belt can easily fit in. The center console has been straightened out, in order to accommodate police equipment and computers. The gear shifter is now right at the base of the dashboard. The rear of the car isn’t as luxurious as the front, but it does feature separate climate control, a real advantage when transporting K9 units.

things off is Ford’s popular SYNC infotainment system, with voice controls.

Almost all of the technologies from the 2011 Ford Explorer are present on the Police Interceptor Utility, including the Curve Control or the AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control. The Blind Spot Information System, the rear view camera, as well as the cross-traffic alert system are also included in the car. Rounding things off is Ford’s popular SYNC infotainment system, with voice controls.

Balan notes that the Police Interceptor Utility has been fitted with upgraded brakes, and overhauled suspension, to ensure the best performance while cruising as well as during off-road maneuvers. Curiously though, the Terrain Management System is not included on the police SUV.

Even so, the utility vehicle is light, precise and easy to handle. “Officers won’t need any special training to drive this,” said Carl Widmann, vehicle engineering manager. “The advanced technologies and similar driving dynamics of Ford’s new Police Interceptors provide officers the flexibility, convenience and ease of driving utility or sedan police vehicles.”

The Police Interceptor Utility, as well as the sedan version of the police car, will both enter production at the end of 2011. At that time, the current Crown Victoria Police Interceptors will be retired, after many years of service.