When you think of your local law enforcement vehicles that patrol your streets, you may think of models based on convenience and effectiveness. But here are some of the most unexpected and coolest police cars that have been produced.
Abu Dhabi: Lykan Hypersport
Abu Dhabi boasts the fastest police car in the world: the US$3.4-million W Motors Lykan HyperSport (pictured above), which goes from 0-100 km/h in 2.8 seconds before reaching a top speed of 245 km/h. That number isn’t surprising given its 740-horsepower and 3.7 litre twin-turbo flat-six engine.
It may sound like something from the movies because, actually, it is! Only 7 have been produced by the famous Dubai-based company, with Abu Dhabi police taking one. But an extra Lykan was seen jumping between skyscrapers and being demolished in the 7th edition of the Fast & Furious franchise:
United States: Tesla
(Image source: https://www.fremontpolice.org)
The Fremont, California, police department began testing a Tesla Model S patrol car this year, with zero greenhouse emissions to help the City achieve its objectives.
Turning Tesla’s battery-electric sedan into a police cruiser is easier said than done, however. Standard equipment such as the light bar, the push bumper, and the ballistic barrier partition needed to be developed from scratch.
Whilst the customizations of the Tesla has initially placed the car at a higher cost than the Ford Explorer, the police department expects to save a substantial amount of money by going electric. If the sedan lives up to expectations, the department will purchase additional Tesla models to replace gasoline-powered patrol cars such as the Dodge Charger.
Italy: Lamborghini Huracan
(Image source: https://media.lamborghini.com)
The Italian Police now have two Lamborghini Huracans, with the newest ‘Polizia’ model being specially equipped for law enforcement needs. Combined with its 0-100km/h time of just 3.3 seconds, the refrigeration compartment that’s been customized under the hood also makes the Polizia the world’s best organ transportation vehicle. The latest vehicle also comes with an on-board tablet, video and audio recording equipment to document traffic stops, and a defibrillator.
Isle Of Man: BAC Mono
(Image source: autoweek.com)
British supercar manufacturer Briggs Automotive Company (BAC) has worked with the Isle of Man government to provide an official police BAC Mono. The concept is to make it easier for local police officers to engage with road users and explain the importance of safer driving on the island’s fast, dangerous roads.
Andy Greaves, Isle of Man police motorcyclist and collision investigator, stated: “We are here to promote safe use of the road, and it’s amazing how many people want to talk to you when this is your transport. Every opportunity we get, we stop and talk to visitors. Having a show-stopper like a BAC Mono police car on the fleet makes that so much easier.”
Japan: Nissan 370Z
(Photo courtesy: motor1.com)
We’ve shown you the Fast & the Furious and now it’s time for the speedy but effective Japanese selection. Tokyo police boasts three Nissan 370Z coupes as part of its high-speed pursuit division, chasing down suspects with their 3.7-liter V6, 350 horsepower engines. Tokyo police acquired the coupes in 2016 and swapped the Nissan emblem with their own insignia.