Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Hybrid taxi drivers find fuel efficiency paying off after Sandy]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/03/hybrid-taxi-drivers-find-fuel-efficiency-paying-off-after-sandy/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/03/hybrid-taxi-drivers-find-fuel-efficiency-paying-off-after-sandy/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/03/hybrid-taxi-drivers-find-fuel-efficiency-paying-off-after-sandy/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2012 Toyota Camry Hybrid NYC Taxi

One of the major side effects of the power outrages in New York and New Jersey following hurricane Sandy is gas stations' difficulty getting fuel to customers. Shortages have led to seemingly endless gas lines, and in all of this, hybrids have shown their inherent value.

Business Insider says that hybrids are proving to be advantageous for many New York City taxi drivers. The NYC cab fleet is currently a mix of hybrid vehicles and comparatively fuel-hungry Ford Crown Victoria sedans. According to the report, at many taxi companies, cars are assigned to drivers first-come, first-serve, so what they're driving on a given day comes down to the luck of the draw.

One cab driver said that refueling a the V8-powered Ford costs about $45 a day, while the the hybrid taxis can go a couple days before needing to gas up. It's suspected that the Crown Vic drivers, forced to go to great lengths to refuel, will not be reimbursed for their efforts.

Hybrid taxi drivers find fuel efficiency paying off after Sandy originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 03 Nov 2012 12:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cabcrown viccrown victoriaford crown victoriahurricane sandynew york citynycsandytaxiyellow cabSat, 03 Nov 2012 12:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20369117/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/03/hybrid-taxi-drivers-find-fuel-efficiency-paying-off-after-sandy/20369117/article-detail.xml 20369117 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/nyctaxicamryhybrid_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/nyctaxicamryhybrid.jpg <![CDATA[MN cops in trouble for drag racing squad cars on airport runway]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/19/mn-cops-in-trouble-for-drag-racing-squad-cars-on-airport-runway/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/19/mn-cops-in-trouble-for-drag-racing-squad-cars-on-airport-runway/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/19/mn-cops-in-trouble-for-drag-racing-squad-cars-on-airport-runway/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor with lights on - front three-quarter view

Recently the Caledonia, Minn. Police Department took delivery of a new Ford Crown Victoria (curiously, CV production ended in September of 2011) police cruiser. This got the attention of not only the local criminals, but it apparently piqued the interest of the Houston County Sheriff's Department, too.

Just like in high school, when another kid gets a new car, there's gonna be talk about whose car is faster. So according to reports, a Caledonia officer and a Houston County deputy lined up on a local airport runway to pit the county's Dodge Charger against the city's new Ford Crown Vic Police Interceptor. We imagine there were roaring engines, squealing tires and clouds of taxpayer-financed smoke.

Did we mention the two lawmen were on duty? Well, because of that, the Caledonia officer piloting the Ford won a free month of suspension. The Dodge-driving deputy got away without so much as a warning. Perhaps that was winner's award. Neither side is saying, though, who won or what speeds were attained.

A former Caledonia commissioner reportedly ratted out the street-racing officers and later alleged there is a "culture of, quite frankly, bad behavior" at the sheriff's department.

In his deputy's defense, Houston County Cheif Deputy Scott Yeiter says the incident was "an employee coaching session."

MN cops in trouble for drag racing squad cars on airport runway originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Sep 2012 14:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>caledoniachargercrown victoriacrown victoria police interceptordodgefordhouston countypolice carsWed, 19 Sep 2012 14:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20325035/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/19/mn-cops-in-trouble-for-drag-racing-squad-cars-on-airport-runway/20325035/article-detail.xml 20325035 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/crown-victoria-police-interceptor628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/crown-victoria-police-interceptor628opt.jpg <![CDATA[NHTSA probing 2005-2008 Ford Crown Victoria police cars over steering issue]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/17/nhtsa-probing-2005-2008-ford-crown-victoria-police-cars-over-ste/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/17/nhtsa-probing-2005-2008-ford-crown-victoria-police-cars-over-ste/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/17/nhtsa-probing-2005-2008-ford-crown-victoria-police-cars-over-ste/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2003 Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is looking into complaints involving steering column shafts that can separate on Police Interceptor versions of the Ford Crown Victoria. An official recall has not been issued yet, but a separated steering column could be dangerous in that it would cause the driver to lose all steering control of the vehicle. Fortunately, there have been no reported crashes or injuries associated with this issue.

Fox News reports that the NTHSA investigation applies to the 2005 through 2008 model years, accounting for around 195,000 police cars, but there have only been three confirmed instances where the car's steering shaft has failed. The report does state that police agencies have been inspecting their cruisers and there are at least 10 additional complaints of steering shafts that were found to be faulty.

While this problem does not apply to the civilian models of the Crown Vic, there are likely to be numerous privately owned cars affected by the problem since so many decommissioned police cars are purchased at auctions.

NHTSA probing 2005-2008 Ford Crown Victoria police cars over steering issue originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 17 Sep 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crown viccrown vic p71crown vic police interceptorcrown victoriacrown victoria p71crown victoria police interceptorfordnhtsanhtsa recallpolice carpolice car recallrecallMon, 17 Sep 2012 14:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20324725/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/17/nhtsa-probing-2005-2008-ford-crown-victoria-police-cars-over-ste/20324725/article-detail.xml 20324725 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/crown-victoria-police-interceptor628opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/crown-victoria-police-interceptor628opt.jpg <![CDATA[Watch the World's Tiniest Police Chase]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/05/watch-the-worlds-tiniest-police-chase/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/05/watch-the-worlds-tiniest-police-chase/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/05/watch-the-worlds-tiniest-police-chase/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

World's Tiniest Police Chase

One would think that with all the technology at modern society's disposal, we would have come up with solutions to the world's persistent troubles by now. Famine would be a thing of the past. War nothing but a dark spot on our history and disease just a whisper of recollection. Sadly, that just isn't the case.

Instead, manufacturers have been happy to supply the masses with wave after wave of gadgets and gizmos that do little beyond entertain us for a few quick seconds. Film-making duo The Theory decided to make the best of one of those gadgets, the Micro Vision projector, by crafting a clever police chase scene.

The quick film follows a convict as he busts out and heads for the hills, or at least the hallway. After a short foot chase, the newly freed con takes to a Ford GT in an effort to escape the long arm of the law. While it's no solution to the world's woes, the clip is clever enough to paint a smile on our faces. That's good enough for us. Check it out for yourself.

Continue reading Watch the World's Tiniest Police Chase

Watch the World's Tiniest Police Chase originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 05 Jun 2012 19:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crown victoriafordford gtgtpolicepolice chasespeed of light videovideoworlds tiniest police chaseTue, 05 Jun 2012 19:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20251625/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/05/watch-the-worlds-tiniest-police-chase/20251625/article-detail.xml 20251625 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/worlds-tiniest-police-chase-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/worlds-tiniest-police-chase-628.jpg <![CDATA[Canada's Shaw creates a Super Bowl commercial, Canadian-style]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/06/canadas-shaw-creates-a-super-bowl-commercial-canadian-style/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/06/canadas-shaw-creates-a-super-bowl-commercial-canadian-style/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/06/canadas-shaw-creates-a-super-bowl-commercial-canadian-style/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Cadillac CTS-V and Ford Crown Victoria car chase

Here's a Super Bowl commercial that most of us probably missed, even those of you who stayed on the couch for all four quarters and didn't even get up during halftime.

It's a fantastic car-chase commercial that features a first-generation Cadillac CTS-V and a pair of iconic Panther-platform Crown Victoria Police Interceptors. The ad is promoting high-speed Exo service for Canadian cable provider Shaw, which explains the couch potatoes and flatscreens riding atop each car.

Check it out after the jump, and get another chuckle now that the newness of the U.S.-market spots has worn off.

Continue reading Canada's Shaw creates a Super Bowl commercial, Canadian-style

Canada's Shaw creates a Super Bowl commercial, Canadian-style originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 06 Feb 2012 18:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cadillaccrown victoriacts-vfordsuper bowlsuper bowl adssuper bowl commercialsuperbowlMon, 06 Feb 2012 18:26:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20164893/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/06/canadas-shaw-creates-a-super-bowl-commercial-canadian-style/20164893/article-detail.xml 20164893 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/shawexo_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/shawexo.jpg <![CDATA[Mass. Lt. Gov. Murray was unbelted, driving 100 mph while snoozing before crash?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/05/mass-lt-gov-murray-was-unbelted-driving-100-mph-while-snoozi/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/05/mass-lt-gov-murray-was-unbelted-driving-100-mph-while-snoozi/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/05/mass-lt-gov-murray-was-unbelted-driving-100-mph-while-snoozi/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Massachusetts Lieutenant Governor Tim Murray (Dem) didn't brake or try to steer away from the rock ledge his Ford Crown Victoria was headed for at speeds of nearly 100 miles per hour. That's according to reports stemming from the aftermath of an early morning accident on November 2, 2011 in which Murray's state-owned car left the roadway on Interstate 190 in Sterling, MA, and struck a rock ledge at 92 mph before rolling over. The Massachusetts State Police have released the black box data from the incident, which revealed not only the high rate of speed, but also contradicts prior statements from Lt. Governor Murray that he was wearing a seatbelt and driving around the speed limit.

This particular stretch of Interstate 190, which your author drives five days a week, isn't particularly treacherous, although the region did experience a freak snowstorm just two days prior on Halloween. The storm caused significant damage to trees and power outages were widespread, and Lt. Governor Murray had set out early that morning to assess the damage in the region that serves as his homebase. Massachusetts State Police have concluded after analyzing the black box data that the Lieutenant Governor fell asleep at the wheel, which accounts for the rapid acceleration from a sustained 75 mph to essentially flat-out, as well as the lack of avoidance maneuvers or braking attempts.

At the scene, Lt. Governor Murray asked for a Breathalyzer, which showed there was no alcohol in his system, and in statements since then, he's pledged to reimburse the state for the vehicle. In light of this latest evidence, State Police cited Lt. Governor Murray with a $555 fine, but he managed to avoid further charges including reckless driving. From where we sit, that's a stroke of good fortune, but no more lucky than Murray avoiding serious injuries in the first place.

Mass. Lt. Gov. Murray was unbelted, driving 100 mph while snoozing before crash? originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 05 Jan 2012 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crown victorialieutenant governorlt governor tim murray crashtim murraytim murray crashtim murray crown victoriaThu, 05 Jan 2012 10:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20139825/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/05/mass-lt-gov-murray-was-unbelted-driving-100-mph-while-snoozi/20139825/article-detail.xml 20139825 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/tim-murray-mass-lt-gov_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/tim-murray-mass-lt-gov.jpg <![CDATA[Say 'goodbye' to these cars and trucks for the new year]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/22/say-goodbye-to-these-cars-and-trucks-for-the-new-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/22/say-goodbye-to-these-cars-and-trucks-for-the-new-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/22/say-goodbye-to-these-cars-and-trucks-for-the-new-year/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

BMW X6 hybrid

As we prepare to flip our calendars from 2011 to 2012, it's time to say goodbye to a handful of vehicles that are being sent to the Great Parking Lot In The Sky before the 2012 model year completely takes hold. And while we're not exactly upset about having to bid farewell to things like the Mitsubishi Endeavor, Mazda Tribute or Chevrolet HHR, there are a few vehicles that we're truly going to miss.

The Mazda RX-8, for example, has grown to be one of our favorite sports cars since its introduction in 2003. We love its lightweight construction, high-revving rotary engine and surprisingly functional suicide door design. It's kind of like a Miata with a roof and rear seats. Speaking of the Miata, Tesla's two-seat Roadster - the automaker's first production vehicle - proved to us that open-top motoring can be thrilling even with a stack of batteries driving the wheels.

We'll miss the Honda Element and its rugged, utilitarian nature. We'll miss the Volvo V50 and its capacious cargo area made for Ikea runs. And we'll really miss those large lords of luxury, the Cadillac DTS and Ford Crown Victoria. We've already said goodbye to the faithful but overripe Ford Ranger, and as ridiculous as the BMW X6 ActiveHybrid was, it was a shockingly good-to-drive electrified crossover.

There are plenty more models that won't be making the journey to the 2012 model year, so have a look at the full list in our attached image gallery, then let us know which ones you'll miss (if any) in the Comments.

Say 'goodbye' to these cars and trucks for the new year originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 22 Dec 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activehybridaltima hybridbmwbuickcadillacchevroletcrown victoriadakotadodgedtseclipseelementendeavorfordhhrhondalucernemazdamitsubishinissanrangerroadsterrx-8s40ststeslatributev50volvox6Thu, 22 Dec 2011 12:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20133712/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/22/say-goodbye-to-these-cars-and-trucks-for-the-new-year/20133712/article-detail.xml 20133712 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/01-cars-departing-after-2011628-1324570238_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/01-cars-departing-after-2011628-1324570238.jpg <![CDATA[Georgia police car accidentally sold on Craigslist]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/26/georgia-police-car-accidentally-sold-on-craigslist/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/26/georgia-police-car-accidentally-sold-on-craigslist/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/26/georgia-police-car-accidentally-sold-on-craigslist/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Police Interceptor

We're not strangers to the allure of Craigslist. The classified ad site is our go-to distraction when it comes time to contemplate our next project vehicle, and we've been tempted by the occasional decommissioned Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor more often than we care to admit. As one Chattanooga, Tennessee man recently found out, those vehicles may be more trouble than they're worth. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports that Luke Ridings was recently stopped by authorities as he was driving his newly acquired Crown Vic, complete with lights, camera and radar equipment. Ridings said that he bought the vehicle for $4,000 from an individual in Georgia.

The only problem was that the cruiser was supposed to be crushed by a towing company after electrical issues had forced officials in East Ellijay to pull the vehicle from service. At this point, the company is trying to discover how it originally lost track of the doomed Interceptor. Ridings had his slightly used cop car confiscated and was charged with operating an unregistered vehicle as well as underage drinking.

Georgia police car accidentally sold on Craigslist originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 26 Nov 2011 14:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chattanoogacrown victoriafordford crown victoriaford police interceptorluke ridingspolicepolice carpolice interceptorSat, 26 Nov 2011 14:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20114548/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/26/georgia-police-car-accidentally-sold-on-craigslist/20114548/article-detail.xml 20114548 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/police-interceptor-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/police-interceptor-628.jpg <![CDATA[Autoblog Podcast #248]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/20/autoblog-podcast-248/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/20/autoblog-podcast-248/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/20/autoblog-podcast-248/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Targa Newfoundland, Hyundai Veloster, the last Crown Victoria, Chevrolet Caprice PPV

autoblog podcast

Episode #248 of the Autoblog Podcast is here. This week Chris, Zach, Dan and Chris Paukert talk about the Targa Newfoundland, Hyundai Veloster, the final Ford Crown Victoria, and the Chevrolet Caprice PPV. Your questions and comments power the last third of the podcast, and for those of you who hung with us live on our UStream channel, thanks for taking the time. We've embedded our Q&A module after the jump for you to scroll through and follow along, too. Thanks for listening!

Autoblog Podcast #248:
In the Autoblog Garage
2011 GMC Sierra Denali HD
2012 Hyundai Genesis 5.0 R-Spec


Hosts: Dan Roth, Chris Shunk, Zach Bowman, Chris Paukert
Runtime: 01:28:04
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Continue reading Autoblog Podcast #248

Autoblog Podcast #248 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 20 Sep 2011 16:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>autoblog podcast 248capricecaprice ppvcrown victoriagenesisgenesis sedangmc sierra denali hdsierratarga newfoundlandvelosterTue, 20 Sep 2011 16:36:00 ESTAutoblog Podcast #248Autoblog01:28:04 http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20047681/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/20/autoblog-podcast-248/20047681/article-detail.xml 20047681 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/06/podcastlivev2stamp.jpg <![CDATA[Last Ford Crown Victoria build documented by St. Thomas Assembly]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/16/last-ford-crown-victoria-build-documented-by-st-thomas-assembly/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/16/last-ford-crown-victoria-build-documented-by-st-thomas-assembly/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/16/last-ford-crown-victoria-build-documented-by-st-thomas-assembly/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Pour a 40 out, dance a dervish or do whatever your people do to celebrate the dead, because yesterday, the final Ford Crown Victoria rolled off the assembly line at St. Thomas Assembly Plant in Ontario, Canada. Workers from the plant have been documenting the wind-down on a Facebook page, and you can check out some choice build pictures of the last-ever Vicky in our gallery. The final Crown Victoria was a white model with tan interior and optional rear-seat air conditioning for a customer in Saudi Arabia. With the long-serving Lincoln Town Car also ending production, only 250 of the plant's roughly 1,200 workers will be kept through December to help decommission the facility.

On sale for roughly 32 years, the Crown Victoria was a mainstay of the Ford lineup that refused to modernize. Aside from the Lincoln, it was the only rear-wheel-drive, body-on-frame sedan left on sale in America. You could get it with a column-mounted shifter. You could order two bench seats and seat six comfortably (front bench seats in passenger vehicles are now officially dead in America). It rode on the oldest continuously produced platform on sale in America, Ford's tough-as-nails Panther platform that was first used back in 1979. Lastly, it always offered a V8 no matter what gas was going for at the corner station. Click through the jump to continue reading...

Continue reading Last Ford Crown Victoria build documented by St. Thomas Assembly

Last Ford Crown Victoria build documented by St. Thomas Assembly originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 16 Sep 2011 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 ford crown victoriacrown victoriacrown victoria taxifordford police interceptorlast crown victoriapolice cruiserst. thomas assembly planttaxiFri, 16 Sep 2011 12:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20044699/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/09/16/last-ford-crown-victoria-build-documented-by-st-thomas-assembly/20044699/article-detail.xml 20044699 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/0000-last-ford-crown-victoria-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/09/0000-last-ford-crown-victoria-opt.jpg <![CDATA[New York Taxi Commission moves to ban Lexus RX 450h]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/18/new-york-taxi-commission-moves-to-ban-lexus-rx-450h/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/18/new-york-taxi-commission-moves-to-ban-lexus-rx-450h/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/05/18/new-york-taxi-commission-moves-to-ban-lexus-rx-450h/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

NYC Taxi

With over 13,000 taxis in Manhattan, it's easy to blend in. Over half of those taxis are of the Crown Victoria variety, while a quarter are Ford Escape models. Hybrids are beginning to enter the New York taxi fleets in solid numbers, but a certain model has been singled out as being "too powerful."

The New York Times reports that The Taxi and Limousine Commission has recently passed a regulation removing the Lexus RX 450h from the list of approved cabs. We've never thought of the RX hybrid as "too powerful," but that doesn't seem to matter to the commission.

The move, while a bit odd, will only affect six cab owners. But those owners dropped over $40,000 for their high-end taxis, and more money was spent adding the required yellow paint, lights, a camera and television screen. The owners are hoping to have their Lexus cabs grandfathered in before the Nissan NV200 van is officially ushered in as the Taxi of Tomorrow, but the Taxi and Limousine Commission isn't commenting on the issue.

For our money, it seems as though the Commission is a bit off on this one. After all, most any passenger is going to enjoy the luxury taxi experience, especially since the fares are the same as they are in an Escape or Crown Vic. And "too powerful?" Seriously?

New York Taxi Commission moves to ban Lexus RX 450h originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 May 2011 13:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cabcrown victoriaford escapehybrid taxilexus rx taxi bannedlexus RX450hnew york cityWed, 18 May 2011 13:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19943151/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/05/18/new-york-taxi-commission-moves-to-ban-lexus-rx-450h/19943151/article-detail.xml 19943151 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/gyi0063759493_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/05/gyi0063759493.jpg <![CDATA[Ford Taurus Police Interceptor to hit streets with 2013 updates]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/25/report-ford-taurus-police-interceptor-to-hit-streets-with-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/25/report-ford-taurus-police-interceptor-to-hit-streets-with-2013/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/25/report-ford-taurus-police-interceptor-to-hit-streets-with-2013/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2013 ford taurus
2013 Ford Taurus and 2012 Taurus Police Interceptor - Click either image for high-res gallery

2012 Ford Taurus Police InterceptorThe Ford Crown Victoria has been such a valuable asset to police agencies around the U.S. that some municipalities have gone as far as to order extras. The reason? The Crown Vic will be retired at the end of 2011, with a replacement coming in the form of the Taurus Police Interceptor. But with the new 2013 Taurus being shown at the New York Auto Show and Ford already having shown a version of the cruiser based on the 2011 model, which version will the cops get?

USA Today reports that Ford product boss Derrick Kuzak says the Taurus PI will in fact be based off the 2013 model, which includes LED taillights and new front and rear fascias. Beyond cosmetic upgrades, the 2013 Taurus will also receive a 27-horsepower boost from the 3.5-liter V6 (to 290 hp) and an EcoBoost 2.0-liter turbo that boasts highway fuel economy of 31 miles per gallon. The V6-powered EcoBoost Taurus SHO will continue to feature 365 hp.

Since the new Taurus PI will be a 2013 model, will it also offer all three powertrains? We're thinking there might be a few police agencies that would be interested in a more fuel efficient cop car. A 2.0-liter EcoBoost model could save municipalities some bucks, but historically, most departments have shied away from the high-tech and smaller displacement in favor of the less complex and tried-and-true, so we're not sure how well they'd fare in the marketplace. What are your thoughts? Have your say in Comments.


Gallery: 2013 Ford Taurus

2013 Ford Taurus2013 Ford Taurus2013 Ford Taurus2013 Ford Taurus2013 Ford Taurus

Gallery: 2012 Ford Police Interceptor



[Source: USA Today]

Ford Taurus Police Interceptor to hit streets with 2013 updates originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 25 Apr 2011 13:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford taurus2013 tauruscrown victoriaford taurusford taurus police interceptorpolice carpolice carspolice interceptortaurusMon, 25 Apr 2011 13:32:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19922793/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/04/25/report-ford-taurus-police-interceptor-to-hit-streets-with-2013/19922793/article-detail.xml 19922793 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/03-2013-ford-taurus630opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/04/03-2013-ford-taurus630opt.jpg <![CDATA[Video: Moab's Hells Canyon conquered... in a Ford Crown Victoria?!]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/30/video-moabs-hells-canyon-conquered-in-a-ford-crown-victoria/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/30/video-moabs-hells-canyon-conquered-in-a-ford-crown-victoria/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/03/30/video-moabs-hells-canyon-conquered-in-a-ford-crown-victoria/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Ford Crown Victoria in Hells Canyon - Click above to watch the video after the jump

Hells Canyon is said to be one of the more challenging off-roading destinations in Moab, Utah. The road-free zone is usually traversed by the likes of a Jeep Wrangler, Hummer H2 or perhaps a Toyota FJ Cruiser, but apparently a trail-capable SUV isn't needed for this lunar rock landscape. Heck, you don't even need four-wheel drive, as one Ford Crown Victoria owner seems to know all to well.

Hit the jump to watch in amazement as an old rear-drive Crown Vic takes on the undulations of Hells Canyon. Almost as impressive is the fact that the owner's dog walks beside the car the entire way, seemingly unconcerned by the rocky hills. The video's music is a bit obnoxious and its camera work shaky, but that doesn't take away from the enjoyment of this climbing Panther. Now we know why cops love the Crown Vic so much. Hat tip to Chad!

[Source: Daily Debri]

Continue reading Video: Moab's Hells Canyon conquered... in a Ford Crown Victoria?!

Video: Moab's Hells Canyon conquered... in a Ford Crown Victoria?! originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 30 Mar 2011 12:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011+ford+crown+victoria2011fordcrownvictoriacrown victoriacrown+victoria+helss+canyoncrown+victoria+moabcrownvictoriahelsscanyoncrownvictoriamoabford crown victoriahells canyonhells+canyon+moabhellscanyonmoabmoabmoab crown vicmoab utahoff-roadingoff-roading crown victoriavideoWed, 30 Mar 2011 12:28:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19896573/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/03/30/video-moabs-hells-canyon-conquered-in-a-ford-crown-victoria/19896573/article-detail.xml 19896573 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/crown-vic-moab_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/03/crown-vic-moab.jpg <![CDATA[Fitting Retirement: Grand Marquis last Mercury off the line]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/05/fitting-retirement-grand-marquis-last-mercury-off-the-line/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/05/fitting-retirement-grand-marquis-last-mercury-off-the-line/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/01/05/fitting-retirement-grand-marquis-last-mercury-off-the-line/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



The signs have come down and retail production ended back in October of 2010. Now, the very last Mercury model has rolled off the assembly line. This last Mercury somewhat fittingly takes the form of a Grand Marquis reporting for fleet duty. It was built at the St. Thomas plant in Ontario, Canada, which is the same facility that continues to produce the Ford Crown Victoria and Lincoln Town Car for fleet and livery duty.

St. Thomas' days are numbered, however, as the factory is slated to close on August 31. When it goes, the Panther platform is likely to follow. So long, and thanks for all the fish memories.

[Source: Autoweek]

Fitting Retirement: Grand Marquis last Mercury off the line originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 05 Jan 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 mercury grand marquiscrown victoriafordford crown victoriagrand marquismercurymercury grand marquisst thomas assemblyWed, 05 Jan 2011 09:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19786983/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/01/05/fitting-retirement-grand-marquis-last-mercury-off-the-line/19786983/article-detail.xml 19786983 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/02mercmarquis07hr_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/01/02mercmarquis07hr.jpg <![CDATA[Official MSP Numbers: Chevy Caprice is quickest, fastest police car... barely]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/08/official-msp-numbers-chevy-caprice-is-quickest-fastest-police/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/08/official-msp-numbers-chevy-caprice-is-quickest-fastest-police/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/10/08/official-msp-numbers-chevy-caprice-is-quickest-fastest-police/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

2011 Chevrolet Caprice police car
2011 Chevrolet Caprice PPV -- Click above for high-res image gallery

The numbers are in, folks. This year's Michigan State Police Vehicle Evaluation pitted Ford's Jurassic Crown Victoria Police Interceptor (the new Taurus-based Police Interceptor was reportedly on hand, but its numbers won't be included until next year), Chrysler's 2011 Dodge Charger Police Pursuit model and General Motors' Chevrolet Caprice Police Patrol Vehicle against each other in a no-holds-barred fight to the finish. And let's just say the results are closer than you might think.

For instance, as pointed out by the proud parents at Chevrolet, the Caprice did, in fact, manage to set the best acceleration times to 60 miles per hour and 100 mph. But... and there's always a but... the 2011 Charger was pretty much neck-and-neck with the Caprice. In fact, the Charger was quicker to 20, 40, 50, 70 and 80 mph. So, which one is really quicker? Pretty much a photo finish, if you ask us.

Also, top speeds between the two competitors were within spitting distance: 148 mph for the Caprice and 146 for the Hemi-powered Charger. There's plenty more intriguing data as well, such as the fact that the new Pentastar V6-powered Charger was, on average, almost exactly as fast around the race track as its more powerful V8-powered sibling, and both were about a second behind the Caprice in the lap time derby.

And what of the old stalwart? Ford's age-old Crown Victoria did its best, but was still over two seconds behind at 60 mph and a woeful 10 seconds afield by 100. Top speed for the Vic was 129 (with a 3.27 rear end, which was even slower in acceleration tests than its 3.55-equipped brother), and its lap times were well behind that of the Caprice and Charger.

Braking tests also favored the new Caprice and Charger. Chevy's entry posted a projected 60-0 stopping distance of 128.3 feet and the Charger managed to come to a halt in 133.9 feet (133.2 with the V6). For comparison, the Crown Vic needs 141.6 feet to haul itself down from speed.

One final note: If acceleration is really what an officer is into, perhaps he should consider a switch to two wheels. Kawasaki's Concours 14 ABS Police bike hit 100 mph in under 10 seconds and the BMW R1200 RTP did the deed in under 12. See the complete preliminary testing results here at the link below.


Gallery: 2011 Chevrolet Caprice Police Car


[Source: Michigan State Police Vehicle Evaluation]

Official MSP Numbers: Chevy Caprice is quickest, fastest police car... barely originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 08 Oct 2010 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chargerchevroletchevrolet capricechevrolet caprice police patrol vehiclechevrolet caprice ppvcrown viccrown victoriadodgedodge chargerdodge charger policeDodge Charger Pursuitfordford policeford police carford police cruiserford police interceptorFord Police Interceptor Crown Victoriamichigan state policemichigan state police vehicle evaluationpolicepolice carpolice carspolice cruiserpolice interceptorFri, 08 Oct 2010 19:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19667013/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/10/08/official-msp-numbers-chevy-caprice-is-quickest-fastest-police/19667013/article-detail.xml 19667013 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/caprice-ppv_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/caprice-ppv.jpg <![CDATA[eBay Find of the Day: Ex-Bondurant Cobra-engined Roush Ford Crown Victoria [w/video]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/17/ebay-find-of-the-day-ex-bondurant-cobra-engined-roush-ford-crow/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/17/ebay-find-of-the-day-ex-bondurant-cobra-engined-roush-ford-crow/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/17/ebay-find-of-the-day-ex-bondurant-cobra-engined-roush-ford-crow/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

Former Bondurant Ford Crown Victoria Roush Cobra-engined car
Ex-Bondurant Cobra-engined Roush Ford Crown Victoria - Click above for high-res image gallery

We're aching for some seat time in the the new Ford Police Interceptor, but given our choice of flogging one of the new-school bruisers or one of the old-school cruisers, we know which one we'd take. And it just happened to appear on eBay Motors. Used as an ex-Bondurant Driving School car, this 1999 Crown Victoria is just one of eighteen cars built by Roush for Bob Bondurant's school. Number 15, to be precise.

Under the hood sits a 320-horsepower 4.6-liter V8 engine plucked from the 1999 Ford Mustang Cobra. The typical police-issue slushbox has been nixed in favor of the T45 five-speed manual normally reserved for SVT Cobra duty. The front and rear suspension setup features Eibach springs and solid sway bars, and the go-fast action can be brought to a quicker halt thanks to a set of Brembo rotors, Hawk pads and Baer steel-braided brake lines. The car is also fitted with a Corbeau driver's seat and five-point safety harness, four-point harnesses for the other seats and a fully-integrated roll cage. If that isn't enough, this potential super-sleeper has a Halon fire suppression system should things get a little warm in the cabin.

The good news is that you can put this car in your driveway by parting with 20,000 of your hard-earned dollars, or perhaps somewhat less if you're a savvy bidder. The bad news? it's not street legal. It's a purpose-built machine for Bondurant and has never been registered or titled. Track beater anyone?

Hop on over to eBay to see the listing to see the specs and hop the jump to see this big black beast in action.


Gallery: Ex-Bondurant Cobra-Engined Roush Crown Victoria

Ex-Bondurant Cobra-Engined Roush Crown VictoriaEx-Bondurant Cobra-Engined Roush Crown VictoriaEx-Bondurant Cobra-Engined Roush Crown VictoriaEx-Bondurant Cobra-Engined Roush Crown VictoriaEx-Bondurant Cobra-Engined Roush Crown Victoria

[Source: eBay Motors | Image: Challenger Motorsports]

Continue reading eBay Find of the Day: Ex-Bondurant Cobra-engined Roush Ford Crown Victoria [w/video]

eBay Find of the Day: Ex-Bondurant Cobra-engined Roush Ford Crown Victoria [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 17 Sep 2010 10:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bondurantbondurant driving schoolCrown Viccrown victoriaeBayebay Find of the Dayfordford crown victoriaford mustang cobraford police interceptorpolice interceptorROUSHSVTsvt cobraFri, 17 Sep 2010 10:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19636471/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/09/17/ebay-find-of-the-day-ex-bondurant-cobra-engined-roush-ford-crow/19636471/article-detail.xml 19636471 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/bondurant-roush-ford-crown-victoria-lede11_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/bondurant-roush-ford-crown-victoria-lede11.jpg <![CDATA[Surprise! New York cabbies prefer Crown Vics to hybrids]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/30/surprise-new-york-cabbies-prefer-crown-vics-to-hybrids/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/30/surprise-new-york-cabbies-prefer-crown-vics-to-hybrids/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/30/surprise-new-york-cabbies-prefer-crown-vics-to-hybrids/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



If it weren't for the somewhat obsessive and frankly narrow-minded love by taxi drivers and police officers for the body-on-frame Ford Crown Victoria, we'd imagine the old Panther platform would have been put out to pasture a very long time ago. As it stands, though, New York cabbies especially seem hell-bent on keeping it around on life support as long as possible.

Interestingly, though, a report from USA Today suggests that cab drivers make more money when operating a Crown Vic than any other automobile, and that supposedly includes hybrids. According to John Shaban, a 27-year-old cab driver, "I don't like the hybrids... Mechanics charge an arm and a leg for them."

Could it be that customers inherently prefer the Crown Vic? Shaban believes so, saying, "People wait for the Crown Vic because it's roomier. They're more likely to get in." Regardless, that's all set to change soon as Ford finally discontinues its long-running rear-wheel-drive people mover. It's expected to be replaced with - you guessed it - a hybrid or some other fuel efficient alternative.

[Source: USA Today | Image: Emmanuel Dunand/AFP/Getty]

Surprise! New York cabbies prefer Crown Vics to hybrids originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 30 Jul 2010 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cab driverCabDrivercableCrown Viccrown victoriaCrownVicCrownVictoriafordford crown vicford crown victoriaFordCrownVicFordCrownVictorianew york taxiNewYorkTaxitaxitaxi cabTaxiCabtaxisFri, 30 Jul 2010 08:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19574108/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/07/30/surprise-new-york-cabbies-prefer-crown-vics-to-hybrids/19574108/article-detail.xml 19574108 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/10/76523348_opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/10/76523348_opt.jpg <![CDATA[Video: Watch the live reveal of the 2012 Ford Police Interceptor]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/12/video-watch-the-live-reveal-of-the-2012-ford-police-interceptor/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/12/video-watch-the-live-reveal-of-the-2012-ford-police-interceptor/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/12/video-watch-the-live-reveal-of-the-2012-ford-police-interceptor/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2012 Ford Police Interceptor reveal - Click above to watch the video

Earlier today, Ford unveiled its next generation Police Interceptor (they'd rather you not call it a Taurus) at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway before a group of police agency fleet buyers. The event was webcast live, but you can now watch a replay as Ford president Mark Fields and vehicle line director Scott Tobin explain the process of developing the new cruiser and how it differs from a civilian Taurus.

The Dodge Charger has been stomping all over the Crown Vic and Impala in recent years during the annual Michigan State Police vehicle test, but that process could end this year when the new Taurus Police Interceptor hits the track. The 365-horsepower Ecoboost-powered Interceptor should be right up there with the Dodge and may well provide better fuel economy to boot.

Ford isn't talking price yet for the new cop cars, but it aims to make it competitive with the rest of the class, and a claimed 25-percent boost in fuel economy compared to Crown Vic should help ease the pain of transitioning. Check out the video after the jump.


Gallery: 2012 Ford Police Interceptor


[Source: Ford]

Continue reading Video: Watch the live reveal of the 2012 Ford Police Interceptor

Video: Watch the live reveal of the 2012 Ford Police Interceptor originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 12 Mar 2010 19:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20122012 ford2012 ford police interceptor2012 taurus police car2012Ford2012FordPoliceInterceptor2012TaurusPoliceCarcrown victoriaCrownVictoriafordford policeford police carford police cruiserford police interceptorFordPoliceFordPoliceCarFordPoliceCruiserFordPoliceInterceptorlas vegaslas vegas motor speedwayLasVegasLasVegasMotorSpeedwaymark fieldsMarkFieldspolice carpolice cruiserpolice interceptorPoliceCarPoliceCruiserPoliceInterceptortaurus police carTaurusPoliceCarFri, 12 Mar 2010 19:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19397061/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/03/12/video-watch-the-live-reveal-of-the-2012-ford-police-interceptor/19397061/article-detail.xml 19397061 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/screen-shot-2010-03-12-at-11.53.41-amopt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/screen-shot-2010-03-12-at-11.53.41-amopt.jpg <![CDATA[Source: Next-gen Ford Police Interceptor will debut this Friday in Las Vegas]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/10/ford-police-interceptor-revealed-this-friday/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/10/ford-police-interceptor-revealed-this-friday/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/03/10/ford-police-interceptor-revealed-this-friday/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Hold on to your sap gloves and night sticks - it's that time of the decade! An Autoblog source reveals that Ford is about to release a brand spankin' new Police Interceptor. Not only is this humongous news for our pals in the law enforcement community, but this is 120-point headline font for taxi companies around the country, as they typically buy old Police Interceptors with 90,000 miles on 'em and repurpose them as the cabs we all know and love passing out in. Why? Because Police Interceptors are the toughest passenger cars money can buy.

Few of us have the need to drive over curbs at 50+ mph, but if that need arises, you're going to want to do so in an Interceptor. Aside from the "severe duty" shocks, you get a beefed up frame and body mounts. Yes, that is correct. The Crown Victoria-based Police Interceptor is body-on-frame. Listen, when you're PIT maneuvering a perp during a high speed chase, the last thing you want to worry about is bending the chassis. Plus you got them heavy duty brakes, suspension components and oil coolers. A sweet package, no doubt.

Here's the thing though. If this new Police Interceptor is more than a package, what platform will it ride on? Ford has stated publicly that it's ending the geriatric Panther Platform Crown Victoria's life in 2011. We'll go ahead and interpret that to mean that this new Police Interceptor won't be Crown Victoria-based. Do we know that for sure? No, but it's a logical bit of speculation. Could the new Interceptor be Taurus-based, maybe something with a SHO motor and stouter brakes? Again, yes, but for all we know the upcoming car's a Fiesta with the Mustang GT's new 5.0-liter V8 crammed in the rear seat. Or one of them apocryphal Australia-only rear-drive Falcons. All we know for sure is that Ford's introducing a new Police Interceptor to a select group of folks in Las Vegas this Friday. Production? Concept? We're not entirely sure yet. More details when we get them.

[Image: davidsonscott15 | CC2.0]

Source: Next-gen Ford Police Interceptor will debut this Friday in Las Vegas originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Mar 2010 13:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingbreaking newsBreakingNewsCrown VictoriaCrownVictoriaFordFord Crown VictoriaFord FalconFord FiestaFord MustangFord Panther Platformford police interceptorFord Police Interceptor Crown VictoriaFordCrownVictoriaFordFalconFordFiestaFordMustangFordPantherPlatformFordPoliceInterceptorFordPoliceInterceptorCrownVictoriaPanther PlatformPantherPlatformpolice interceptorPoliceInterceptorSHOWTaurusTaurus SHOTaurusShoWed, 10 Mar 2010 13:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19391702/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/03/10/ford-police-interceptor-revealed-this-friday/19391702/article-detail.xml 19391702 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/3090392251b0c3016b94opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/03/3090392251b0c3016b94opt.jpg <![CDATA[BREAKING: Ford announces it will build all-new Police Interceptor for 2011]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/breaking-ford-announces-it-will-build-all-new-police-intercepto/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/breaking-ford-announces-it-will-build-all-new-police-intercepto/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/11/13/breaking-ford-announces-it-will-build-all-new-police-intercepto/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



In a surprise move, Ford has announced that it will pursue the development of an all-new Police Interceptor model. The move comes on the heels of General Motors' announcement that it plans to challenge the Crown Victoria's law enforcement dominance with its own heavy-duty Chevrolet Caprice sedan.

Details are slim, but Ford says the forthcoming PI will arrive in 2011 and it will sport durability, safety, and performance parameters that are superior to that of the Jurassic Panther-platform Crown Vic. Given the relatively tight timeframe and durability targets, we have to assume that the replacement cop car could be based on the rear-drive Australian-market Ford Falcon shown above. The Blue Oval promises that the car will be engineered and built in America, so it could also be an Ecoboost version of the Ford Taurus (as seen in the SHO), but front-drive cars have had trouble meeting the durability and cost requirements of police duty in the past, making this something of an open question. In an official release posted after the jump, Ford says it will disclose full vehicle specs in the first quarter of 2010, which should give enough time for both law enforcement and police vehicle equipment manufacturers to prepare for the changeover.

Ford says it presently shifts about 45,000 of the 60,000 police cars sold in the States each year, so it makes sense that Dearborn would not be willing to cede this market to Chevy's Caprice and the already established Dodge Charger.

[Source: Ford]

Continue reading BREAKING: Ford announces it will build all-new Police Interceptor for 2011

BREAKING: Ford announces it will build all-new Police Interceptor for 2011 originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 13 Nov 2009 11:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Blue OvalBlueOvalbreakingbreakingnewsCrown Viccrown victoriaCrownVicCrownVictoriaFordFord FalconFordFalconlaw enforcementLawEnforcementpanther platformPantherPlatformpolicepolice carpolice interceptorPoliceCarPoliceInterceptorFri, 13 Nov 2009 11:40:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19236538/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/11/13/breaking-ford-announces-it-will-build-all-new-police-intercepto/19236538/article-detail.xml 19236538 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/11/ford-falcon-g-series-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/11/ford-falcon-g-series-630.jpg -1 2