Ford's 2020 Police Interceptor Utility (PIU) was the fastest vehicle tested this year in the annual Michigan State Police evaluation, according to preliminary test data released by MSP.

The 2020 EcoBoost-powered PIU was faster than V8-equipped sedans. The standard hybrid 2020 PIU also beat all competitive SUV entries, including V8-equipped models, with the fastest 0-100 mph, fastest lap and fastest average lap. The results make good on Ford’s promise to deliver a hybrid Police Interceptor Utility that outperforms today’s 3.7-liter V6 model with all-wheel drive, Ford says.

Stephen Tyler, police brand marketing manager for Ford, says America’s law enforcement agencies previously have had to choose either fuel efficiency or all-out performance, but the new vehicle offers both. “The all-new 2020 Police Interceptor Utility offers significant potential fuel savings with no trade-offs in safety, passenger or cargo space on top of bringing improved performance,” he said.

While fuel economy certification isn’t complete, the Police Interceptor Utility hybrid is expected to have a projected EPA-estimated combined label of at least 24 mpg, an approximately 40% improvement over the current 3.7-liter V6.

Anticipated fuel economy gains, combined with expected fuel savings from reduced engine idling time, are expected to help save law enforcement customers an estimated $3,500 per vehicle in yearly fuel bills versus the current Police Interceptor Utility, Ford says.

In addition to turning in the fastest times, the EcoBoost Police Interceptor Utility clocked in with the highest top speed – 150 mph in Michigan State Police evaluations, marking the first time an SUV was the overall quickest and fastest police vehicle. The hybrid version turned in a top speed of 137 mph, also besting competitive SUV entries, including those equipped with V8 engines.

Ford says that along with offering police agencies standard hybrid technology and standard all-wheel drive with no trade-offs in safety, passenger or cargo space, the all-new 2020 Police Interceptor Utility brings improved horsepower, torque, acceleration and top speed versus today’s 3.7-liter V6 model.

Because law enforcement use entails extensive engine idling to power lighting, radios, computers and other on-board electrical equipment, a hybrid powertrain can be an economical option for police departments. The hybrid allows the gas engine to shut off, powering electrical equipment from its lithium-ion battery, with the gas engine running intermittently to charge the battery.

The all-new 2020 Ford Police Interceptor Utility is available to order now, with shipments to customers beginning summer 2019.

For more information on Ford police vehicles, visit www.fleet.ford.com/showroom/police-vehicles/.