The Michigan State Police began testing 2013 model-year police vehicles this morning. Along with tests performed by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, the results of the Michigan State Police Evaluation Test are used as benchmarks for state county and local law enforcement agencies across the United States.
The first segment of the annual MSP testing portion is being conducted at Chrysler Group’s proving grounds in Chelsea, Michigan. The high-speed handling tests, always a source of great interest, will be conducted Monday at Grattan Raceway, about twenty miles northeast of Grand Rapids, Michigan.
The results of the testing and officer evaluations will be released in November.
Just in time for the tests, Ford announced that its Taurus-derived Police Interceptor sedan will be available with the 3.7-liter twin independent variable camshaft timing (Ti-VCT) engine currently installed in the Explorer-based Police Interceptor utility. Ford says the engine will provide more power while maintaining fuel efficiency.
The 3.7-liter V6 boosts output to 305 horsepower and 279 lb.-ft. of torque while also achieving a highway fuel economy of 25 mpg highway; 18 mpg in the city and 21 mpg combined. Ford says the horsepower and torque ratings are the highest of any naturally aspirated V6 engine offered for pursuit-rated sedans.
“This combination of great performance and top-notch fuel economy means law enforcement agencies won’t have to compromise power or fuel efficiency while getting the job done,” said Bill Gubing, chief engineer for Police Interceptor.
Chrysler Group also announced an upgrade to its Dodge Charger Pursuit, though this one won’t be ready for this year’s round of testing.
Beginning with the 2014 model year, authorized agencies will be able to order the 5.7-liter HEMI-equipped Charger Pursuit with a new All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system to enhance police emergency responses even under adverse conditions. Allpar.com is reporting on the new system and will be updating its coverage as more information becomes available.