Ford's Police Interceptor Utility is currently a prototype, and the automaker is still refining the vehicle for a scheduled 2012 model-year release. Ford is releasing the special-service vehicle based on the Ford Explorer, which was relaunched for civilians in 2011. However, this pursuit-rated utility has been specially designed for law enforcement. It will be built in Chicago and is equipped with a 3.5-liter V-6 engine rated to deliver at least 280 hp.
Ford P.I. Utility
The second row features a vinyl bench seat that folds flat. The seat can be easily wiped down.
Nearly 90 percent of the vehicle's interior has been redesigned for police and includes the Ford SYNC hands-free information system that allows officers to operate communication and audio equipment by voice control.
Ford added more carrying capacity in the utility, including a three-drawer rack and storage for a full-size spare tire. The vehicle is rear crash-test rated at 75mph.
Ford's ballistic door panels are an option on Ford's Police Interceptors. They have been certified by the National Institute of Justice to stop Level 3, non-armor piercing rounds.
The Ford P.I. Utility, which was introduced in the fall of 2010, is a full-size, four-door sport utility with all-wheel drive, a 3.7-liter V-6 engine, and six-speed automatic transmission with a 3.65 rear-axle ratio.
The body styling of Ford's Police Interceptor Utility will be familiar to officers who know the civilian Ford Explorer. The special-service vehicle for officers includes plenty of police-specific features and will compete head-to-head with the Chevy Tahoe SUV.
The P.I. Utility includes many police purpose interior features such as anti-stab seat plates, easy access gun racks and a touch-screen computer interface system.
Ford's P.I. Utility is the company's first utility vehicle specifically designed for police work, according to the company.
The wide-ranging commonality in parts between Ford's P.I. utility and sedan includes standard 18-inch wheels.
The spotlight mount on the P.I. utility passes through the vehicles boron steel frame and can be maneuvered by a handle inside the vehicle.
Lockable cockpit gun racks provide room for two long guns (a shotgun and patrol rifle) between the front seats.