The Wheels of Justice November December 2018

Sergeant James Post

TRANSPORTATION 2019

P&SN presents its 21st annual report on the latest technical advances in police vehicles, components and aftermarket equipment.

Welcome to our annual transportation issue which covers all that’s new in LE transportation as gleaned from national events like the IACP Conference, National Sheriffs’ Association Annual Conference, Police Fleet Expo, and the annual Michigan State Police (MSP) vehicle evaluations. This year, we’ve rearranged a couple of sections to provide you with a faster, easier review.

Our coverage will begin with the results of the recent MSP tests of LE vehicles and motorcycles, followed by a comprehensive review of the new sedans and SUVs available from the “Big Three” and police motorcycles. We’ll conclude with a review of the latest emergency equipment options available to you.

MSP 2019 MODEL YEAR TEST RESULTS

The annual MSP tests are conducted with LE-specific vehicles and motorcycles submitted by various manufacturers. The 2019 tests were held September 13 through 17, 2018. To insure a level playing field, all vehicles are tested “slick top,” sans lightbars.

We’ll organize this year’s MSP results differently than previous years. Instead of lumping all vehicles together, resulting in an “apples and oranges” comparison, we’ve grouped vehicles like most departments compare and purchase them…sedans, SUVs, trucks, and motorcycles.

Police Sedan Acceleration and Top Speed

Police sedans seem to be a dying breed today, as witnessed by the fact that only four of the 12 vehicles tested were sedans – one Ford and three Dodges. The Dodge Charger Pursuit has been the best-selling police sedan in North America for several years, causing the competition to fade away as the builders concentrate on their SUVs. Gone are the familiar names like Crown Vic and Caprice, as only the Charger remains.

Presented for evaluation by FCA were three Dodge Charger Pursuits – the 3.6L V-6 in RWD, the 5.7L V-8 in RWD and the AWD 5.7L. Ford brought their PI Sedan replacement, the Responder Hybrid Sedan.

The two HEMI® powered Pursuits tied for the top sedan speeds at 149 mph (down from 150 mph last year), while the V-6 topped out at a respectable 141 mph. In the two timed acceleration speeds (0-60 and 0-100), the AWD HEMI Charger was the fastest at 0-60 mph in 5.87 seconds, but, in 0-100, the RWD HEMI was quickest at 14.66 seconds.

Comparing results of the Ford Responder Hybrid Sedan and the Charger is not valid because the Responder was never meant to be a pursuit vehicle. Although equipped with all of the bells and whistles, the sedan was developed to be an economical hybrid urban police car and an alternative to gas powered sedans. It posted a respectable top speed of 119 mph which should be adequate for any inner city police patrol.

Police SUV Acceleration and Top Speed

Echoing the current trend in policing, LE SUVs were the largest group of vehicles tested – seven out of the 12. And, you will have more choices next year with the introduction of the two new Mopar® SUVs, the Dodge Durango Pursuit and the 2020 PI Utility Hybrid.

Chevrolet brought two of their popular Tahoes, both 5.3L V-8s – one in RWD and one in 4WD. There were two Durango Pursuits, a 3.6L V-6 and a 5.7L V-8, both in full-time AWD. Ford rolled out three PI Utilities, including the 2020 Utility Hybrid. All are full-time AWD, with a 3.3L V-6, a 3.0L EcoBoost® and the Hybrid gas/electric.

Ford’s EcoBoost Utility earned all of the speed honors this year by being the fastest of ALL vehicles tested. Their top speed was 150 mph and completing their trifecta, their timed runs were also the fastest – 0-60 was 5.77 seconds and 0-100 was 13.59 seconds. The icing on the Michigan cake was that they also claimed the top average lap time of 1:36.47. The other two PI Utilities tied at 137 mph top speeds, both being faster than the Tahoes and Durangos. Yes, one of them was the Hybrid!

The two Tahoes were pretty well-matched to each other, with the RWD unit edging out the 4WD with a top speed of 134 mph vs. 121 mph. The RWD also posted faster 0-60 and 0-100 times.

Mopar fans were disappointed with the Durango Pursuit’s speeds, as both units posted the slowest SUV top speeds, 117 mph (V-6) and 118 mph (V-8). However, the HEMI’s 0-60 and 0-100 timed runs were faster than either of the Tahoes.

Sedan Braking

The Charger Pursuit has the unique distinction of posting the best and the worst estimated stopping distances of the sedans. The best was 126.9 feet, recorded by the RWD V-6, and the worst was 133.8 feet by the AWD HEMI. The second best distance was the RWD HEMI at 128 feet, while the Police Responder was third at 129.4 feet. It should be noted that the RWD V-6 Charger’s braking was best of ALL vehicles tested.

SUV Braking

The Dodge Durango redeemed itself in the braking tests as the V-6 unit came in at a respectable 128.8 feet. Second best was the EcoBoost Utility at 131.5 feet and the Utility Hybrid was third at 132.4 feet. The worst results were posted by the RWD Tahoe at 145.7 feet, almost 18 feet further than the Durango.

The vehicle with no competition whatsoever was the Ford F150 Responder pickup. Pickups have carved out a small niche among LE vehicles and are increasing in popularity, particularly with rural and mountainous area sheriff agencies. Although GM and FCA both offer Special Service trucks, Ford was the only company which provided one for testing. Ford’s Responder was powered by the 3.5L EcoBoost which was impressive in their PI Utility and, although the truck was the slowest of all vehicles tested at 108 mph, its braking results were actually better (at 141.9 feet) than both Tahoes.

MOTORCYCLE TEST RESULTS

Three companies provided a total of seven motorcycles for evaluation, the same as last year. North America’s sales leader, Harley-Davidson®, brought three police bikes: the FLHTP, the FLHTP Stage I and FLHTP Stage II. BMW brought three also: the R 1250 RT-P, F 750 GS-P and the F 850 GS-P. Yamaha finished out the group with their FJR1300AP.

The fastest solo again this year was the Yamaha at 144 mph, a mile faster than last year. It also posted the fastest timed runs of 0-60 (3.78) and 0-100 (8.39). BMW bikes posted the second and third highest speeds – the 1250 RT-P at 137 mph and the 850 GS-P at 118 mph. The 1250 RT-P also had the second fastest 0-60 times (4.03) and 0-100 (8.77). The BMW R 1250 RT-P posted the fastest average lap time of 1:36.60, while the Yamaha was second at 1:38.56. Unfortunately, the three Harley-Davidson motorcycles tied as the slowest bikes at 109 mph each.

The braking exercises were the reverse of the speed testing: Whereas the Yamaha was the fastest motorcycle tested, it had the worst stopping distance of 143.3 feet, nearly 13 feet further than the best finisher, the BMW R 1250 RT-P at 130.7 feet.  The BMW F 850 GS-P placed second at about four feet further, 134.4 feet, while third place went to the Harley-Davidson FLHTP at 137.5 feet. The remaining two H-D solos followed closely at about one foot further each. With disappointing braking results like last year, it looks like the folks at Yamaha might consider adding a parachute to their speed machine for next year’s tests.

THE 2019 POLICE CARS (AND SUVS)

Throughout this year, we have kept you updated with “breaking news” on the changes the folks at Detroit, Dearborn and Auburn Hills were planning for next year’s cruisers. This was often a combination of fact, fiction, speculation, and even wishful thinking, because getting actual confirmation can be as difficult as changing spark plugs wearing a catcher’s mitt; ditto for sales figures. The reality is, of course, that auto production is a competitive affair, so the Big Three are understandably tight-lipped. That’s why we always look forward to this issue to reveal the reality.

CHEVROLET

(gmfleet.com/police)

Bow tie loyal buyers will find their 2019 LE choices from GM are becoming scant.

Tahoe 

There are three Tahoes available: the Tahoe Police Pursuit Vehicle (PPV), available in either 2WD or 4WD, and the 4WD Special Service Vehicle (SSV). Officers will have an unprecedented level of safety with the Enhanced Driver Package which includes Forward Collision Alert, Automatic Braking and Lane Departure Warning. All Tahoes feature Chevy’s EcoTec3® 5.3L V-8, developing 355 hp and 383 ft lb of torque.

Standard equipment on the PPVs include headlight and taillight flashers, six air bags, a heavy-duty isolated auxiliary battery, a heavy-duty suspension, a full-size spare, and an available skid plate package. Both PPV versions are pursuit-rated, whereas the SSV 4X4 is not. The SSV stands two inches taller than the PPVs; has over two inches more ground clearance; and it rides on larger wheels and tires.

Impala

The once very popular Impala is still available, although only as a nonpursuit undercover/administrative vehicle. It is available with either an EcoTec3 3.4L four-cylinder engine with stop/start technology or the popular 3.6L V-6 with E-85 flex-fuel capability. The Impala is FWD, with a six-speed transmission and it boasts a huge trunk with 18.8 cu. ft. of cargo space and is available in six colors.

Also available at the Chevy store is the Silverado SSV pickup, available in either 2WD or 4WD, powered by a 5.3L EcoTec3 V-8. Both are available with off-road tires and suspension packages and two bed lengths of 5′ 8″ and 6′ 6″.

FIAT® CHRYSLER

(fcausfleet.com)

It is highly unlikely that, in the hallowed halls, boardrooms and design studios at Auburn Hills, you will ever hear the words “one size fits all” because FCA’s current LE lineup truly has something for every need, from Charger Pursuit sedans with two engine and drive wheel choices, to the Ram Law 1500 pickup and the all-new Dodge Durango Pursuit SUV.

Dodge Charger Pursuit 

The LX Platform Charger police car has been with us for over a dozen years now, but there is little in comparison between the first and current models in appearance, technology and officer safety. There are two engine choices and two drive systems available in the 2019 Charger Pursuits – the Pentastar® 3.8L V-6 in RWD and the Gen III 5.7L HEMI V-8 in either RWD or AWD. North America’s best-selling police sedan has been treated to several restyles with the current version which borrows styling clues from the car’s namesake of the ’60s and ’70s. The looks are stunning with the distinctive retro side coves and “race track” rear lights, but the popularity of this cruiser goes well beyond skin deep. FCA’s AWD is the most advanced of the competition with a power split of 50/50. The Charger features pursuit-rated brakes, load leveling suspension, All Speed Traction Control, and electronic stability control. Standard is keyless entry and starting while the officer retains the fob.

With officers’ safety paramount at FCA, the Charger can be fitted with optional ballistic door panels and steel seat back inserts. Standard safety equipment includes the Officer Protection Package which utilizes cameras and sensors to detect movement behind the car alerting officers as images automatically appear on the 12.1″ Uconnect® dashboard touch screen. The system can be programed to activate warning chimes, flash tail and back-up lights, roll up windows, and lock the doors. The Charger’s Secure Park prevents idling cars from being driven without the fob onboard.

Dodge Durango Pursuit

At last year’s MSP tests, FCA fielded a modified Durango SUV, causing speculation that a pursuit-rated Durango might be coming. In a field dominated by Tahoes and PI Utilities, Mopar loyal agencies (particularly those with Chargers) were more than ready. Although the tests were not published, they were impressive enough that FCA proceeded with the heretofore secret Durango Pursuit project. Well, wait no more…it’s here and you can order one today. Starting with the re-engineered front fascia which features integrated brake cooling air ducts, to the Charger style “race track” rear lighting, this SUV is new from bumper to bumper.

The pursuit-rated brakes feature 13.8″ rotors in the front and 13″ rotors in the rear. With these brakes and the exclusive Ready Alert Braking System (which anticipates situations that may initiate an emergency stop, such as a car chase), the Durango had the best projected stopping distance of all the SUVs at the recent MSP tests. The standard Durango engine is the proven 3.6L Pentastar V-6, while the optional power plant is the popular HEMI 5.7 V-8. Both engines are attached to an eight-speed transmission with full-time AWD standard and a two-speed transfer case for off-road assignments.

Technology merges with safety in the new Durango. Boasting the largest touch screen in the sector, keyless entry and starting, rear vision and parking assist, the Durangos offer performance and enhanced officer comfort and safety. With Three Zone Automatic Temperature Control, the Durango will appeal to departments with K-9 patrols, too.

The Durango Pursuit falls right in the middle between the Tahoe and PI Utility in overall size, ground clearance and cargo volume – all features you look for in an SUV. It is anticipated that fleet pricing will also be somewhere between the Tahoe and the PI Utility, making this SUV a logical choice for agencies looking for a “midsize” SUV. Plus, you’ll never have to say “I coulda had a V-8.”

Ram 1500 Special Service and ProMaster®

Under the FCA umbrella, you’ll find two more unique special purpose vehicles. The 2019 Ram 1500 Classic Special Service is a 4X4 Crew Cab pickup with a 5′ 7″ bed. The Special Service Group adds the 5.7L HEMI with MDS, six-speed transmission, engine oil cooler, ten-way power cloth driver’s bucket seat, and fixed rear door windows. The truck features Ram’s exclusive bed side storage compartments large enough for long gun storage and has a towing capacity of 10,050 lbs.

The Ram ProMaster is a cargo van suitable for a variety of LE functions such as SWAT, prisoner transport, mobile command posts, and crime scene labs. It is available in four lengths, two heights and three wheelbases and is available with or without side windows. The ProMaster is powered by the Pentastar 3.6L V-6 and is available in 13 colors.

FORD MOTOR COMPANY

(fleet.ford.com)

Throughout the past 100 years or so, Ford has built many memorable police cars, such as the Crown Vic Police Interceptor®, the Mustang Special Service and the Fox body LTD. Although Ford no longer produces a pursuit-rated sedan, their PI Utility has a huge following. In fact, the 2018 Utility represented 80% of Ford’s PI sales and accounted for 52% of all police vehicles sold in the U.S.

Ford’s current LE lineup consists of the Police Interceptor Utility (in three versions), the Police Responder Hybrid Sedan, the F150 SSV and Police Responder pickup, the Expedition SSV, and the Transit PTV.

Police Interceptor Utility

Ford’s PI Utility has been tweaked, modified and improved since it debuted in 2012 with its cousin, the PI Sedan. Naysayers scoffed at the notion of attaching the proud name “Police Interceptor” (first used in 1992) to police cars based on a Taurus and Explorer, but they scoff no more, as the PI Utility is officially the fastest police vehicle in America. There were three versions tested at MSP (all pursuit-rated): a 3.3L V-6 AWD, the 3.0 EcoBoost V-6 AWD and the new 2020 Utility Hybrid. All are standard with full-time AWD.

In addition to the accomplishments of the EcoBoost Utility, there is groundbreaking news about the Utility Hybrid. The Hybrid powertrain is ideal for police work which often requires hours of idling while powering radios, computers and other equipment. The Hybrid allows the gas engine to shut off, while powering electrical equipment from its lithium ion battery and starting the gas engine intermittently to charge the battery. Fuel savings with the Hybrid are estimated to be $3500 a year when compared to the current PI Utility. Even with these savings, the Hybrid still hit an amazing 137 mph, faster than six of the other vehicles tested this year. And, even with the batteries onboard, cargo space has increased over the 2019 Utility.

PI Utilities share other features, such as improved rear A/C for K-9 service and the optional Rear Camera on Demand which can be activated independently of the reverse gear. When these features are combined with the Police Perimeter Alert system, the PI Utility provides safer working conditions for officers and their K-9 partners.

Ford’s LE lineup is rounded out with the Police Responder Hybrid Sedan, the F150 Police Responder truck, the Expedition/Max SSV, and the Transit PTV Prisoner Transport.

The F150 Police Responder was the first pursuit-rated pickup ever and is powered by the proven 3.5L EcoBoost coupled to a ten-speed SelectShift transmission with selectable drive modes: Normal, Tow/Haul, Snow/Wet, EcoSelect, and Sport. It is a 4X4 and has the largest interior passenger volume of any pursuit-rated vehicle. With the optional Trailer Tow Package, the towing capacity is 12,700 lbs.

Ford’s LE lineup continues with the Police Responder Hybrid Sedan (replacing the PI Sedan), the Expedition SSV and the Transit PTV (Prisoner Transit Vehicle).

POLICE MOTORCYCLES

Police motorcycles continue to be an important element of local, county and state agencies across America and the annual MSP evaluations are an important criteria used by most fleet buyers. Following are details about the motorcycle vendors participating in the MSP tests: BMW, Harley-Davidson and Yamaha.

BMW

(bmwmc.net)

The BMW F 750 GS-P and F 850 GS-P are nearly identical bikes as they share the same engine – the 853cc, a water-cooled two cylinder; however, the 850 develops more horsepower (90 vs. 77) and more torque (8000 vs. 7500). The 850 rider sits over an inch taller than a 750 rider on both the standard and low seats. They have different front forks, but share the same disengageable ABS brakes. The two bikes are well-suited for both on-road and off-road assignments and their MSP results were very similar. The 850 was faster at 0-60, but the 750 was faster at 0-100. With a top speed of 118 mph, the 850 was five mph faster than the 750, and the 750 took four feet further to stop than the 850.

The 1250 RT-P is BMW’s real workhorse. With an air-/water-cooled flat twin “Boxer” four stroke 1170cc engine, it recorded a top speed of 134.4 mph at Michigan. It features a six-speed transmission, has 17″ wheels and two seat heights.

Harley-Davidson

(harley-davidson.com)

Over 110 years ago, an officer riding the first Harley-Davidson police motorcycle began patrolling the streets of Detroit. Since then, that first solo cop has been joined by thousands more officers, deputies and troopers from coast to coast, making the H-D police bikes the best-selling LE motorcycles in North America.

Harley’s newest evolution of the air-cooled V-Twin is the Milwaukee-Eight engine and it powers their two most popular police bikes, FLHTP Electra Glide® and the FLHP Road King®. Both develop 1868cc and feature Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI) and five-speed transmissions. Their brakes are full-time ASB with four-piston calipers front and rear. There are some minor differences in the two bikes; while both have windshields, the Electra Glide also has a fairing. Riders of both machines sit at the same height and both bikes have a 5.3″ ground clearance.

Harley-Davidson’s third LE bike is aimed for departments wanting a smaller, lighter and more agile motorcycle, the Police XL 883®, which is a smaller solo based on their popular Sportster. It is powered by an 883cc Evolution® air-cooled V-Twin which shares the ESPFI with the larger bikes. It also has a five-speed gearbox.

Yamaha

(yamahamotorsports.com)

Yamaha’s FJR 1300 AP is powered by a 1298cc in-line, four-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine coupled to a six-speed transmission and a shaft drive. It comes with their Chip Controlled Throttle and features adjustable seat and handlebar options. Their windshield is higher than their standard windshield and the solo has wind deflectors to protect an officer’s feet.

EMERGENCY EQUIPMENT

You’ll find this section is arranged differently than in prior years. American consumers tend to be brand loyal, whether they are buying breakfast cereals, running shoes or new cars. Police fleet buyers are no different. Many times, they stick with local companies, but, generally, they tend to buy brands they are familiar with and satisfied with. Another factor is that, frequently, they can easily integrate new equipment with the same company’s equipment already in service. In the case of consoles, partitions and lightbars, most LE equipment suppliers can also provide mounting brackets to facilitate installation, even if they change makes or models of vehicles.

This section is presented alphabetically by manufacturer, so you can easily find your favorite supplier.

All Fleet Solutions

(allfleetsolutions.com)

The DVT-04 is a dual voltage timer and power distribution panel in one clean package, featuring four timed and two hot circuits, with a 75 amp load.

The DVT-01 has a 30 amp load with a single output timer. This unit includes many features, such as Low Voltage Disconnect. To ensure that a temporary load does not create a nuisance shutdown, the DVT Timer will wait 15 seconds before disconnecting the circuit. Over-Voltage Protection immediately disconnects the circuit when voltage exceeds 18 VDC and reconnects when the voltage returns to <18 VDC.

Code 3®, Inc.

(code3pse.com

Code 3’s latest emergency equipment innovation is the Matrix® system which is an intuitive, customizable system that programs police vehicle lights and sirens quickly and efficiently. They offer several Matrix compatible devices, such as the 21TR and 27 Series Serial lightbars and the Z3 Serial Siren.

Federal Signal

(fedsig.com)

Federal Signal has raised the bar (pun intentional) with their new Allegiant lightbar. Measuring a scant two inches tall, the unit includes 28 flash patterns, built-in SingleMaster and floodlight, takedown and alley light functionality using Solaris® LED reflector technology.

Hardwire, LLC

(hardwirellc.com

Hardwire has two products which greatly improve officer’s safety in active shooter situations. Their custom designed Transparent Armor Window Insert seamlessly covers existing door windows in the PI Utility, Charger Pursuit and others. It provides ballistic protection (Level IIIA+ handgun/shotgun) for the officer while still allowing for community engagement. The armored window insert requires no modifications to the car and the OEM window still operates normally. Their Vehicle Door Armor attaches to the outside of a door using antitamper fasteners. The lightweight armor provides Level IIIA+ protection and is OEM color matched. It also accepts decals to match police department markings. The armor panels stay securely in place on the roughest terrains and are modular, scalable and upgradeable. They are available for the Charger and the PI Utility.

Havis, Inc.

(havis.com

New from Havis is their C‐DMM‐3001 Flip-up Dash Monitor Mount which is touted as the next generation of dash mounts. Featuring a 30 minute installation time, this new low profile mount requires no drilling and can carry up to 12 pounds of electronics. Built for the Ford Police Interceptor Utility, this new mount allows for easy flip up which provides access to vehicle controls. Also included is a secure dual action latch for added safety. The C-DMM-3000 Series is also offered for additional vehicles.

Jotto Desk

(jottodesk.com)

Jotto has a number of brand-new items to add to their current line of quality LE equipment they offer. The new AR/ZRT Wide Body Console provides a concealed and secure storage solution when the vehicle is left unattended for an extended period of time. The AR is housed in a 12-gauge enclosure featuring (two) barrel keyed cam locks with heavy-duty dogs to prevent unwanted access.

Their new Dodge Durango PPV (2019+) Contour Console has a dash contouring shape which will mount up to 12″ of equipment (seven inches at the top and five inches at the bottom). Simply replace the factory console in minutes using top-down installation.

The new Space Creator partition solution utilizes the available space behind the front passenger seat. Improved bidirectional recessed housing provides depth behind the equipment console, allowing for mounting gun racks, printers and other items. It also provides more leg-/kneeroom in order to transport larger prisoners. Space Creator partitions includes the High Security/High Visibility (HS/HV) window option and is available for the Dodge Durango, Ford PI Utility, Chevy Tahoe, Dodge Charger, and others.

Kustom Signals, Inc.

(kustomsignals.com)

Kustom’s latest directional radar is the Eagle® 3. It is the smallest mounted radar unit currently available. With selectable color combinations, it has outstanding view ability in direct sunlight or at night, as front and rear targets are clearly displayed. The Eagle 3 also features Scan Mode, a new method of front and rear simultaneous operation which supports multiple zone target tracking. It also features a new electronic tuning fork fully integrated into the wireless remote which greatly simplifies testing requirements.

Lund Industries, Inc.

(lund-industries.com)

Lund’s LOFT weapon storage system utilizes the unused space up near SUV headliners. It does not interfere with rear vision and is currently available for the Tahoe and PI Utility. By the time you read this, it should be available for the Durango and Expedition. The new “Auto-opening” version automatically opens for immediate access to weapons.

Their new SSTB-RN TGB-14 Tactical Gear Box is the perfect companion to the LOFT gun storage system. It is specifically designed for the PI Utility and utilizes a raised leg mounting kit to position it above the cargo deck, allowing access to the spare tire.

Putco

(putco.com)

Putco is an automobile accessory manufacturer and the original developer of the Blade Tailgate lightbar. They have now applied this technology to enhance the safety of emergency vehicles. Utilizing over 2000 chip onboard LEDs, the Emergency Blade provides rear end protection with a variety of functions and color options, all controlled with Putco’s wireless remote. Installation is quick with provided clips and 3M adhesive tape.

Setina Manufacturing Company, Inc.

(setina.com

Setina has been providing quality American made public safety vehicle products for over 55 years. Setina’s products include their LED lighted push bumpers with integrated side and front lighting and optional Fender Guards for PIT maneuvers. Their Prisoner Transport Systems for sedans and SUVs include components like SmartBelt, an automatic electronic seat belt and warning system, side curtain airbag compatible prisoner partitions with nine window options and recessed panels for additional legroom, replacement door panels, window barriers, and SUV cargo area barriers. Setina also builds K-9 compartments which can even be combined with prisoner compartments.  They also offer a variety of weapon mounting options in their Vaultlock systems and many SUV storage boxes and drawers. Setina offers these products for the popular sedans and SUVs, including the new Dodge Durango Pursuit SUV. A select number of their equipment is transferable from one make and model to another.

SoundOff Signal®

(soundoffsignal.com)

Established in 1992, SoundOff Signal is a leader in the emergency vehicle LED lighting marketplace. Their products are designed, engineered and assembled in the USA to ensure a high level of quality.

SoundOff Signal engineers and builds lightbars, exterior- and interior-mounted emergency lighting, control systems (including bluePRINT), sirens and speakers, flashers, and interior lighting. Their mpower® LED lightbar is the sleekest in the industry, measuring a scant one inch thick (50% thinner than its leading competitors). With a silicone Clear Duty® molded one-piece housing, the mpower line of products delivers a number of advantages over conventional polycarbonate lenses in visibility, durability, and UV and thermal stability.

Tremco Police Products

(tremcopoliceproducts.com)

Tremco’s Anti-theft System has been securing police vehicles from theft for over 30 years. It is completely camouflaged and protects vehicles from unauthorized use, even when left running and unattended. It is activated every time a vehicle is put into park. Building on the success of their police vehicle security system, Tremco has now developed systems for ambulances and fire apparatus.

Troy Products

(troyproducts.com)

Troy offers cargo partitions for the PI Utility with a built-in fire extinguisher compartment. Their partitions are side air bag compatible and the unique three-sided design creates a cargo cocoon. When you add the optional hatch window screen, the cargo is completely secured, even if the side windows are broken.

TruckVault, Inc.

(truckvault.com)

TruckVault has introduced their remodeled SUV Series storage systems which include rapid access to vehicle spare tires. The new Elevated Line mounts their secure storage systems atop a rugged steel frame. TruckVault is proud to announce its free shipping program to lower costs and streamline ordering for its customers.

 

Tuffy Security Products

(tuffyproducts.com)

Tuffy Security Products has created a rear under seat lockbox specifically designed to fit the 2019 GMC Sierra and Chevy Silverado Crew Cab and Double Cab pickup trucks. Featuring a formfitting design, the lockbox is concealed from view when the 60/40 split bench seats are lowered.

The Model 352 is comprised of 16-gauge, powder coated welded steel; uses Tuffy’s patented Pry-Guard locking system; has chamfered edges; and a weather-resistant lid with a built-in lid stop.

Tufloc®

(esmet.com)

The new X-Lock gun lock offers one-handed access with stainless steel, spring-action locking arms which tightly secure long guns. It can be mounted with little or no drilling and it features padding to protect guns and prevent rattling. Their locking mechanism can be opened with a key or an electric timer.

Westin Public Safety Division

(westinpublicsafety.com)

Westin recently announced their new Defender Series Interior Products which include front and rear partitions, prisoner seats with the Ready Buckle Seat Belt System, and Defender door cover panels and window guards. All of these products are available for the Tahoe, PI Utility and Durango. Their Ready Buckle System design combines safety and functionality by locating the retractor buckle nearest to the occupant’s shoulder. Westin also offers push bumpers with optional PIT wings. 

Whelen Engineering Company, Inc.

(whelen.com

The latest lightbars from Whelen are their Ceridian series, an all-new low-profile design with a multitude of unique features and options. They are available in SOLO (single color), DUO (two color) and TRIO (three color) models. The light head modules mount in any position and the hard coated lenses minimize environmental damage. Advanced Thermal Design improves LED performance during extended operation and the bars offer options such as Traffic Advisor, takedown and alley lights. The Ceridian Series is offered in three widths and in a dozen color configurations.

This concludes our yearly transportation report as we add our sincere hope for a safe 2019 for America’s Finest.

Sergeant James Post appreciates your comments and suggestions for future articles. He can be reached at kopkars@arkansas.net.