Ford Readying Pursuit-Rated Explorer SUV

Following the introduction of its new Taurus-based Police Interceptor, Ford is finalizing plans to unveil a pursuit-rated 2011 Ford Explorer to join the ranks of its revamped police offerings, the Detroit News reports.

When the company unveiled the patrol car that will replace the Ford CVPI at a fleet event in March, the company that holds 70 percent of the police vehicle market confirmed it was working on a second vehicle that "would share most parts with the Taurus and be available in a utility version."

The police Explorer is expected to be a pursuit-rated, four-wheel-drive vehicle to compete with the police Chevrolet Tahoe, which is offered in pursuit-rated two-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive versions.

The versatility of the vehicle appeals to big city departments that plan to use them for command vehicles, K-9 units, SWAT teams and other uses that require officers to carry more gear.

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