Detroit - Ford has announced that it is building a new US police car to replace the ageing Crown Victoria models and customised to the modern needs of law and order officials. Based on the Ford Interceptor concept car revealed at the Detroit Motor Show in 2007, Ford said it is cooperating with police officials in building a car with improved safety features and low maintenance costs. It will replace the current model from 2011.
The Crown Victoria models have been criticised for being too thirsty, slow and cramped. Some models built prior to 2005 were also prone to catching fire in rear-end collisions.
The US police force requires about 60,000 police cars annually with Ford producing about 45,000 of the cars.
The Standard Interceptor sedan concept comes with a 400 horsepower 5.0-litre V-8 power package, capable of running on E-85 ethanol fuel. Safety features include a four-point "belt and suspenders" harness seat belt design in the front and rear seats, with inflatable safety belts for rear seat passengers.
