Out are the massive, gas-guzzling Crown Victorias, and in are new Ford all-wheel-drive SUVs that the Police Department says will soon become more common in the fleet. Having all-wheel-drive increased the price by about $1700.00 but gives officers "a huge advantage," especially in winter and has the room to carry the extra equipment for our area surrounded by nature reserves and lakes.
The Interceptors have smaller engines than the Crown Vics, but that doesn't mean they're not as powerful. The SUVs have 300 horsepower, compared to 250 for the Crown Vics, according to Ford.
Ford stopped making the Crown Victorias -- those stereotypical, boatlike police cruisers -- in 2011, instead building smaller vehicles that use six-cylinder engines instead of V8s for police departments. Lakemoor began using its first two Ford SUVs last week and plans to add more as the police department rotates out older fleet. These SUVs will be replacing a 2007 & 2008 Chevy Impala.
Police Squad Car vehicles typically last three to four years until they reach more than 100,000 miles. When the vehicles are taken out of commission and are in good condition, they are often given to other village departments or sold at auction.
