What Is A Police Interceptor: Features, Uses, and What Sets It Apart
A police interceptor is a high-performance vehicle made for law enforcement. It’s often based on popular Ford models. These cars have advanced features for emergency situations.
From the Ford Crown Victoria to the Ford Police Interceptor Utility, they’re key in law enforcement. They’ve been used in the U.S. for many years.
Police interceptors are built for top performance and safety. They have strong engines and special equipment. These vehicles are vital for keeping communities safe.
Evolution of Ford Police Vehicles
Ford started making police vehicles early on. In 1951, they introduced the “Interceptor” name for a special V-8 engine in police cars. This name stuck through the 1950s, setting the stage for the famous Police Interceptor brand.
From Fleet Models to Specialized Units
The Ford LTD Crown Victoria was made from 1979 to 1991. It had a “P72” code for police models. This move showed a shift towards police cars made just for law enforcement, not just modified fleet models.
Introduction of the Interceptor Name
In 1992, Ford launched the first “Police Interceptor” car, the Crown Victoria. It quickly became the top choice for police departments in the U.S. It served as the go-to emergency vehicle for nearly 20 years.
| Model Year | Ford Police Vehicle | Engine Specifications |
|---|---|---|
| 1992-2011 | Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor | 4.6-liter Modular V8 engine |
| 2012-2019 | Ford Taurus Police Interceptor Sedan | 3.7-liter V-6 engine with 305 horsepower |
| 2013-present | Ford Police Interceptor Utility | 3.7-liter Ti-VCT V6 engine, upgraded in 2020 to a twin-turbocharged V6 |
What Is A Police Interceptor
A police interceptor is a special car made by Ford Motor Company for law enforcement. It’s based on Ford models but made for police needs. The Ford Police Interceptor Utility is based on the Ford Explorer.
These cars are built for police work. They have strong engines, advanced tech, and tough structures. They’re made for high-speed chases, emergency calls, and long waits.
- Optimized for police and emergency service use
- Built on existing Ford models, such as the Explorer
- Offer enhanced performance, durability, and safety features
- Equipped with powerful engines and advanced technology
- Designed to withstand the rigors of police work
Ford makes these cars to help police face their challenges. They’re key tools for police to do their jobs well. They help keep communities safe.
Crown Victoria: The Original Police Interceptor Legacy
The Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor (CVPI) was a true icon in law enforcement. It set the standard for police vehicles for nearly two decades. Introduced in 1992, it had a powerful 4.6-liter Modular V8 engine.
This engine provided ample performance for pursuit and response duties. Over the years, the CVPI underwent several design updates. These included the removal of chrome trim and the introduction of a unique honeycomb grille in the early 2000s.
Design and Performance Features
The CVPI was known for its rugged construction and reliable performance. In 2003, it received a significant upgrade. It got a 300-horsepower V8 engine and a frame that was 20% more resistant to vertical bending.
This improved the vehicle’s handling and stability. It made it a formidable tool for law enforcement officers.
Impact on Law Enforcement
The Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor quickly became the most widely used law enforcement vehicle in North America. By 2003, it accounted for approximately 85% of police cars in the United States. Its popularity was due to its power, durability, and spacious interior.
It was an ideal choice for a wide range of law enforcement duties.
Street Appearance Package Options
To cater to the needs of undercover and unmarked law enforcement units, Ford offered a “Street Appearance Package” (SAP) for the CVPI. This package gave the vehicle a more civilian-like appearance. It had chrome trim and Crown Victoria badging, allowing it to blend in seamlessly with regular traffic.
The Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor’s legacy is undeniable. It set the standard for modern police vehicles. It remained a critical tool for law enforcement agencies across the country until its production ended in 2011.
Modern Police Interceptor Sedan Specifications
The Ford Police Interceptor Sedan (FPIS) was introduced in 2013. It was a high-performance option for law enforcement. It was based on the sixth-generation Ford Taurus.
The FPIS had powerful engine choices. These included a 3.5-liter V6, a 3.7-liter V6, and a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 with 365 horsepower. All-wheel drive was standard for better traction and control. Front-wheel drive was available for some models.
The FPIS had advanced safety features. It had a Blind Spot Information System, rear-view camera, and electronic stability control. These helped officers stay safe on the road.
Production of the FPIS ended in March 2019. Ford then focused on the Police Interceptor Utility model.
| Engine Options | 3.5-liter V6, 3.7-liter V6, 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 (365 hp) |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain | All-wheel drive standard, front-wheel drive available |
| Safety Features | Blind Spot Information System, rear-view camera, electronic stability control |
| Production Timeframe | 2013 to 2019 |
The Ford Police Interceptor Sedan (FPIS) was a top choice for police. It combined power, handling, and safety. Its specs made it a reliable high-performance police car.
Police Interceptor Utility: The Next Generation
The Ford Police Interceptor Utility (FPIU) is a top-notch law enforcement SUV. It sets new standards in performance, safety, and efficiency. The second-generation FPIU, introduced in 2019, takes the Interceptor lineup to new heights.
Explorer-Based Design Elements
The FPIU is based on the sixth-generation Ford Explorer. This design combines the SUV’s spaciousness and versatility with the ruggedness and performance law enforcement demands.
Advanced Safety Technologies
Safety is key for the FPIU. Ford has equipped it with advanced safety features. The 2025 model comes standard with a hybrid powertrain for better fuel efficiency and to power onboard equipment even when the gasoline engine is off.
Performance Capabilities
The FPIU has powerful engine options for law enforcement’s diverse needs. The standard hybrid powertrain has a 3.3-liter V-6 and an electric motor. It delivers 318 horsepower and 322 lb-ft of torque. An optional twin-turbo 3.0-liter V-6 offers 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque for high-speed pursuits and emergency response.
| Engine | Horsepower | Torque (lb-ft) |
|---|---|---|
| 3.3L Hybrid V-6 | 318 | 322 |
| 3.0L EcoBoost V-6 | 400 | 415 |
| 3.3L Direct-Injection V-6 | 285 | 260 |
The Ford Police Interceptor Utility keeps evolving. It offers law enforcement agencies the advanced capabilities, safety, and performance they need to protect their communities.
Engine Options and Performance Features
The Ford Police Interceptor lineup has various high-performance engines. They cater to the different needs of law enforcement. Whether you need a police pursuit vehicle, a emergency response vehicle, or a high-performance police car, the Interceptor has it all.
The Ford Police Interceptor Utility is the top model. It comes with a 3.3-liter V6 hybrid engine. This engine gives 318 horsepower and 322 lb-ft of torque. You can also choose a 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 engine for 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque.
All Police Interceptor Utility models have a 10-speed automatic transmission. They also have standard all-wheel drive for better traction and handling. Features like pursuit-rated brakes and a heavy-duty alternator make the Interceptor ready for law enforcement work.
Special Equipment and Safety Features
Ford’s police interceptor line is made for law enforcement. It has special features for emergency responses, high-speed chases, and keeping officers safe.
Emergency Response Capabilities
The police interceptor models have high-power alternators and engine systems. They also have wiring for emergency lights and sirens. This ensures they can power important equipment during emergencies.
Pursuit-Rated Components
The police interceptor vehicles are built for high-speed chases. They pass tough tests, like a 75-mph rear-impact crash test. They also have strong subframes, police brakes, and cooling systems.
Officer Safety Innovations
The Ford police interceptor focuses on officer safety. It has ballistic door panels, anti-stab plates, and comfy seats for duty belts. The Ford Police Perimeter Alert system watches 270 degrees around the vehicle. It alerts officers to threats and locks doors and windows for safety.
Police Responder Series: Alternative Law Enforcement Vehicles
Ford’s Police Responder series has a variety of vehicles for law enforcement. The Ford F-150 Police Responder is the first pickup truck made for police. It has a strong twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 engine and can tow up to 7,000 pounds.
The Police Responder Hybrid Sedan is based on the Ford Fusion Hybrid. It’s the first hybrid electric vehicle for police, making it a green choice for city policing.
These vehicles from Ford’s Police Responder series give law enforcement more choices. They are ready for different tasks and missions. The F-150 Police Responder is tough, while the Hybrid Sedan is efficient.
Law enforcement agencies are always changing how they work. The Ford Police Responder series offers many options to meet these needs. These vehicles show Ford’s dedication to helping police officers do their jobs well.
