POLICE Logo
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

Michigan State Police Release 2010 Vehicle Test Results

The Michigan State Police driving unit has released the results from the evaluation of the 2010 models of the most widely used patrol vehicles. The 2010 Dodge Charger is a top performer.

November 16, 2009
Michigan State Police Release 2010 Vehicle Test Results

Chrysler's Dodge Charger fared best in top speed, acceleration and braking at the Michigan State Police's testing event of 2010 patrol vehicles. Photo via Chrysler.

The Michigan State Police driving unit has released the results from the evaluation of the 2010 models of the most widely used two- and four-wheel patrol vehicles. The top dog? Chrysler's Dodge Charger.

For patrol cars, the Dodge Charger (5.7-liter V8) was the acceleration champion from zero-to-60 mph, reaching it in 6 seconds flat. The Chevrolet Tahoe 5.3-liter SUV running E85 was the runner-up at 8.13 seconds.

Ad Loading...

The 5.7-liter Charger also attained the top-logged speed of 146 mph. The two Chevrolet Impala cars (one running E85 fuel) reached 139 mph.

Of the motorcycles, the BMW 1200 reached 60 mph in 4.45 seconds, a full second faster than the Harley-Davidson bikes. The 1200 also reached a top speed of 127, 19 mph faster than the runner-up.

In addition to acceleration, top speed and braking , vehicles were tested on ergonomics, communications and fuel economy . In one of four braking tests, the Dodge Charger 3.5-liter came to a stop from 60 mph in 138 feet, the shortest distance reached for that test.

A vehicle dynamics evaluation is completed on a two-mile course to simulate pursuit and other emergency driving conditions. Motorcycles are also evaluated in this category.

For the 2010 model year, the driving unit tested Ford's Crown Vic Police Interceptor (both rear-axle ratios), GM's front-wheel Impala and two-wheel pursuit-rated Tahoe and the pair of Chargers (3.5-liter and 5.7-liter). Motorcycles tested included Harley-Davidson's Road King, Electra Glide and Buell Ulysses XB12XP, as well as BMW's R1200 RTP and G650.

The Buell bike was tested, even though Harley-Davidson has ceased production of it. Honda's ST1300 wasn't tested, because it was not provided to the unit by the manufacturer or a U.S. dealer.

The reports can be viewed at the agency's website . Agencies can also contact Sheila Cowles of the Michigan State Police at (517) 322-5174 for a print copy that will be available by the end of November.

Ad Loading...
Subscribe to Our Newsletter

More Blogposts

Inside the Badge by Wayne ParhamJuly 19, 2024

Preventing Heat Injury in Police K-9s

In the relentless heat of summer and even early fall in some parts of the country, officers face the important task of protecting their K-9 partners while working in sweltering temperatures. Recognizing changes in a dog’s behavior is the key.

Read More →
Inside the Badge by StaffDecember 19, 2023

Why Your Agency Needs to Attend the ILEETA Conference

ILEETA is a complete resource for trainers to address trainers' needs. Its mission is to enhance the skills and safety of criminal justice practitioners while fostering stronger and safer communities.

Read More →
Inside the Badge by David GriffithNovember 28, 2023

IACP 2023: New Training Products

Technologies for improving law enforcement training and training management were some of the highlights at this year's show.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Inside the Badge by Wayne ParhamOctober 27, 2023

Initial Results Released from MSP 2024 Police Vehicle Testing

The 2024 pursuit-rated vehicles--all pickup trucks or SUVs, including two battery electric models the Chevrolet Blazer EV AWD and Ford Mustang Mach-E--were put through their paces.

Read More →
Inside the Badge by Wayne ParhamJune 26, 2023

Officer Safety Considerations Related to Alternative-Fuel Vehicles

As more alternative-fuel and hybrid vehicles hit the road, police and other first responders need to understand that they are no more dangerous than conventional vehicles. However, there are certain safety considerations every cop should know.

Read More →
Inside the Badge by Wayne ParhamJune 9, 2023

Garmont Working to Grow LE Market Presence

Garmont Tactical has found wide acceptance by military boot buyers, but now the company is trying to better respond to the needs of police officers. Many cops now are not fans of 8-inch boots, so Garmont is adapting.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Inside the Badge by StaffJune 7, 2023

Publisher’s Note: Our Commitment to You

Through our magazine and website and our Police Technology eXchange event, we promise to provide you with information and access to resources to help you do your job safer and better.

Read More →
Inside the Badge by Wayne ParhamJune 2, 2023

10 Tips for Responding to Mental Health Crisis Calls

The Harris County Sheriff's Office is a model for other agencies that want to learn about crisis intervention and mental health crisis response. Sgt. Jose Gomez shares the story of their programs and provides 10 tips for mental health crisis call response

Read More →
Inside the Badge by Wayne ParhamMay 22, 2023

5 Things to Know When Buying Concealed-Carry or Off-Duty Holsters

Mike Barham, of Galco Holsters, shares five important considerations to keep in mind when you buy off-duty concealed or plain-clothes carry holsters.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
10 Tips for Reviewing Use-of-Force Reports - Police Law Enforcement Solutions graphic
Inside the Badge by Wayne ParhamMay 10, 2023

10 Tips for Reviewing Use-of-Force Reports

While the burden of accurately reporting use-of-force situations is on an individual deputy or officer, the person reviewing those reports shares in the responsibility of making sure the reporting is done properly, with clear details included.

Read More →