Police Fleet Professional Magazine - Fall/Winter 2025

MAGAZINE POLICE FLEET EXPO

2025 Highlights

POLICE VEHICLE EVALUATIONS

2026 Model Year

PATROL BOATS & WATERCRAFT

For Today’sPolice Agencies

MOTOR POOL

In the Digital Age

RELIABILITY ALONG WITH PRACTICALITY

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All-New 2026 Polaris RANGER 500 FALL/WINTER 2025 ISSUE

MAST HEAD

Police Fleet Professional is an industry leading publication designed to keep fleet professionals, in law enforcement and public safety, up-to-date and informed on the topics and critical issues affecting their profession.

Owner/Group Publisher Pete Kingwill pkingwill@signalbusinessgroup.com

Police Fleet Professional (distributed by Signal Business Group) is an industry leading digital publication...dedicated to covering the public safety market by providing a platform for sharing ideas and reporting on critical issues that Fleet Managers and Fleet Professionals face every day.

Pete Kingwill pkingwill@signalbusinessgroup.com

Signal Business Group is a business-to-business media company serving law enforcement and public safety, connecting key buyers and sellers through digital products, print products, webinars, streaming platforms, focus groups, and trade show engagements (including education, networking activities and events).

Company Information Signal Business Group, LLC PO Box 3157 Bluffton, SC 29910-3157 www.signalbusinessgroup.com

SAVE-THE-DATE

Editorial Directors Kirk Moen kmoen@signalbusinessgroup.com

Contributing Writers Brad Brewer bbrewer@signalbusinessgroup.com Jen Gavigan jengavigan@comcast.net Police Fleet Expo Trade Show Director Lisa McDade lmcdade@signalbusinessgroup.com Police Fleet Expo Trade Show Management Lisa McDade lmcdade@signalbusinessgroup.com Pete Kingwill pkingwill@signalbusinessgroup.com Kirk Moen kmoen@signalbusinessgroup.com Advertising & Booth Sales Kirk Moen kmoen@signalbusinessgroup.com Briana Hudson bhudson@signalbusinessgroup.com Social Media Manager Meghan McDade mmcdade@signalbusinesgroup.com Website Design/Management Michaeltz Zwief, Ltd. Magazine Design/Layout Jennie Marvin, Owner Digital Mountain Creative www.digitalmountaincreative.com jennie@digitalmountaincreative.com Contact Info Pete Kingwill Owner/Pricipal pkingwill@signalbusinessgroup.com 224-458-1120

THE BIGGEST SHOW YET AUGUST 2026

Details Coming Soon to PoliceFleetExpo.com 2

Lisa McDade Trade Show Director lmcdade@signalbusinessgroup.com 847-922-9371 Kirk Moen National Director kmoen@signalbusinessgroup.com 608-770-6364 Briana Hudson Account Executive bhudson@signalbusinessgroup.com 224-331-0662 Police Fleet Professional Magazine FALL/WINTER 2025

SETINA FIRST ON THE SCENE WITH

NEW 2026 VEHICLE EQUIPMENT

Unequaled Performance & Seamless Designs Inspired By Our Commitment To Law Enforcement.

Rear Cargo Storage

Seating With Smart Belt

Firearm Mounting Systems3

IN T HIS IS S UE

IN THIS ISSUE 34 COVER STORY All-New 2026 Polaris RANGER 500

\

ALL-NEW 2026 POLARIS RANGER 500

34

RELIABILITY ALONG WITH PRACTICALITY

INDUSTRY NEWS

06

PATROL BOATS & WATERCRAFT

41

& NEW PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS

FOR TODAY’S POLICE AGENCIES

4

MOTOR(By POOL TITLE OF STORY Name Here) 30 IN THE DIGITAL AGE

POLICE VEHICLE EVALUATIONS 2026 MODEL YEAR

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Police Fleet Professional Magazine FALL/WINTER 2025

IN T HIS IS S UE

ADV ER T ISER ’S INDE X 39 911 CIRCUITS

911circuits.com

From harnesses to timers and connectors to expanders, 911 Circuits delivers rugged, readyto-install systems engineered for efficiency, safety, and simplicity—built to meet the demands of first responders and fleets alike.

35 COVERCRAFT

covercraft.com

Proudly serving law enforcement with customfit protective solutions designed to withstand the daily demands of police fleet vehicles— delivering durability, comfort, and long-lasting performance where it matters most.

40 DANA SAFETY SUPPLY danasafety.com

Law enforcement and fleet professionals with a mission to provide the best equipment and expertise in public safety.

26 GM ENVOLVE

gmenvolve.com/fleet/police

With a versatile vehicle lineup, which includes the Chevrolet Blazer EV PPV, we’re here to help first responders and precincts source their vehicles.

46 HARLEY-DAVIDSON h-d.com/police

Providing motor officers and rescue personnel the most legendary motorcycles in the world.

23 INTERMOTIVE CONTROLS intermotive.net

Offering commercial safety and performance products, their plug-and-play control systems use vehicle data to unlock enhanced functionality.

03 SETINA MANUFACTURING setina.com

Setina offers a comprehensive line of vehicle up-fitting solutions for all police vehicles, from SUVs and trucks to cars and vans.

18 STALKER RADAR stalkerradar.com

Premier source for hand-held radar guns, dashmount radar, police lidar guns and traffic photo enforcement equipment.

15 TUFLOC

tufloc.com

Precision-built gun security solutions for professional and residential use, offering highquality secure storage options like lock boxes, gun racks, security drawers, and lockers.

29 WAYTEK

waytekwire.com/inpower

Waytek proudly offers a range of InPower electrical solutions, from Auxiliary Battery Switches to Low Voltage Disconnects, featuring solid-state technology for enhanced reliability and performance.

16 POLICE FLEET EXPO

2025 HIGHLIGHTS

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IN DUST RY N EWS

INDUSTRY NEWS

By Police Fleet Professional Staff

Striking a Chord for a Cause KCPD Fleet Supervisor channels his love for guitar-making into a powerful mission—raising funds for officers in need with custom guitars signed by the Kansas City Chiefs.

Learn More

Meet the PUG: Miami’s Driverless Deputy

Miami-Dade County introduces the nation’s first fully autonomous police patrol vehicle—the PUG—built on a Ford Police Interceptor Utility and equipped with cameras and sensors to keep city streets under watch.

Learn More

The Crown Victoria: America’s Most Iconic Cop Car

From its V8 power and rugged Panther platform to its starring role in movies and TV, the Ford Crown Victoria became more than just a patrol car—it defined two decades of American law enforcement.

Here’s how the unassuming sedan earned its place as the “Best Cop Car of All Time.”

Learn More 6

Muscogee Nation Lighthorse Police Unveils New Armored Vehicle

Backed by a Homeland Security grant, the Lighthorse Police Department has added a $400,000 Terradyne armored vehicle to its fleet. Designed to protect officers and de-escalate high-risk situations, the vehicle can carry up to 12 officers, withstand gunfire, and serve the community both in emergencies and at public events.

Learn More Police Fleet Professional Magazine FALL/WINTER 2025

IN DUST RY N EWS

Ohio State Highway Patrol Debuts Seized Dodge Hellcat

Once tied to criminal activity, a Dodge Challenger Hellcat is now turning heads as the newest Ohio State Highway Patrol cruiser.

Seized through a court-ordered forfeiture, the high-powered muscle car won’t be used for traffic stops but will serve as a community outreach vehicle at events across the state.

Learn More

In Memory of Bryan Brooks Defender Supply

Grappler Device Safely Ends Pursuit in St. Paul

Just weeks after introducing the Grappler pursuit-prevention device, the Eagan Police Department successfully used it to stop a fleeing vehicle in St. Paul. The heavy-duty strap system disabled the suspect’s truck, allowing officers to bring the chase to a safe conclusion. This marks the department’s first known deployment of the Grappler, highlighting its effectiveness in reducing pursuit risks for officers and the public alike.

Learn More

Collier County Deputies Add LifeVac Devices to Patrol Fleet

Thanks to a donation from The Cassata Foundation and LifeVac, every Collier County Sheriff’s Office patrol car is now equipped with a LifeVac choking rescue device to enhance community safety.

Learn More

Signal Business Group (Police Fleet Expo & Police Fleet Professional Magazine) would like to extend our sympathy to the colleagues, friends and family of Bryan Brooks, who passed away on October 21, 2025, at the age of 65.

In 2006, Bryan began working in fleet sales at Holiday Chevrolet in Whitesboro, Texas. His leadership and vision inspired him to expand the department to include police vehicle upfitting...a venture that evolved into a new company, Defender Supply. Bryan spent the last 19 years as President where he led with perseverance, integrity, creativity, and care for his team, many of whom he considered family. Naturally, he designed the company's logo himself.

Bryan was well-known and respected in the law enforcement/vehicle upfitting industry and he will be missed.

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IN DUST RY N EWS

NEW PRODUCT ALERT The Only Lightbar Designed For Ballistic Glass

by SoundOff Signal

SoundOff Signal recently announced the official launch of the mpower® Horizon Interior Lightbar.

The first of its kind, mpower® Horizon has the unique capability of shining through ballistic glass with almost no flashback. This industry-changing innovation removes visual distractions for law enforcement officers, and its vertically compact design offers increased field of view. mpower® Horizon uses a patented silicone coupling to optically mate the lightbar to pre-installed windshield buttons available from Custom Glass Solutions.

This limits flashback by eliminating the space between lightbar and glass that causes an internal reflection. Additionally, the lightbar’s slim profile and angled installation allows it to be mounted higher on the windshield than previous models. So its intentionally-designed housing and glass integration blocks external reflections, preserving field of view while further reducing light distraction. mpower® Horizon provides increased warning visibility even at extreme offangles leading to faster reaction time for motorists, helping to avoid accidents and collisions. The lightbar is also equipped with a takedown light that enables operators to direct light into suspect vehicles with a high intensity narrow beam.

This supports officer safety by allowing them to see what’s going on inside the vehicle and preventing suspects from seeing the officers as they approach.

For more information on the mpower® Horizon Interior Lightbar, please visit www.soundoffsignal.com.

Wheeling’s Take-Home Cruiser Program Proves Its Value

Wheeling Police officials say their take-home cruiser program has been a major success, boosting vehicle longevity, cutting maintenance and fuel costs, and improving officer recruitment and visibility in neighborhoods. With more than 70 vehicles now in the fleet, city council recently approved over $500,000 in new purchases—including cruisers, K-9 units, and staff vehicles—to keep the program running strong and ensure reliable resources for officers and the community.

Learn More

Shreveport Moves to Add 30 New Police Cruisers

Facing an aging fleet and rising maintenance issues, Shreveport leaders have proposed spending $1.85 million to purchase 30 new police cruisers. The plan, funded through the city’s general and public safety funds—with help from higher oil and gas revenues—aims to give officers safer, more reliable vehicles to respond to emergencies. A final council vote is set for September 23, with delivery of the new cruisers expected in the coming months.

Learn More

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Police Fleet Professional Magazine FALL/WINTER 2025

IN DUST RY N EWS

LEHR Expands Emergency Vehicle Upfitting with Two New Acquisitions

LEHR, a Broadwing Capital company, has acquired L&W Emergency Outfitters and Alaska Safety Inc., strengthening its national emergency vehicle upfitting platform. With 27 locations and 300 technicians nationwide, LEHR’s expanded capabilities now include enhanced PPE offerings and a broader geographic reach, from the Midwest to Alaska. The move marks the company’s sixth add-on acquisition since 2024, underscoring its rapid growth and commitment to equipping first responders with reliable, mission-critical solutions.

Learn More

Austin Unveils All-Electric Police Patrol Vehicles

As part of its push toward sustainability and modernized public safety, Austin has introduced 100% electric patrol vehicles into its police fleet—marking a major step in its clean fleet transformation strategy.

Learn More

Columbiana Rolls Out New Mobile Command Trailer

With funding secured and deployment underway, Columbiana’s new mobile command unit is now a key asset for public safety—offering a tech-ready hub for events, emergencies, and disaster response.

Learn More 9

IN DUST RY N EWS

Hard Rock Donates $3M for Gary Police Fleet Upgrade

Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana is contributing $3 million over five years to help the Gary Police Department purchase and upgrade 83 patrol vehicles, boosting public safety and officer resources.

Learn More

Ford Patents Police Tech for Home Security Checks

A new Ford patent outlines a system that could guide officers through home inspections while residents are away—enhancing “vacation check” patrols using in-vehicle tech and body cams. While still conceptual, the idea adds to Ford’s growing portfolio of law enforcement innovations.

Learn More

Mayberry Police Car Replica Set for Auction

A 1963 Ford Galaxie 500 replica, modeled after the iconic Mayberry patrol car from The Andy Griffith Show, is heading to Mecum’s Harrisburg auction. Featuring authentic graphics, a vintage siren, and a 352 V8, it’s a must-see for fans and collectors alike.

Learn More

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Florida Highway Patrol...

Wins America’s BestLooking Cruiser Contest

The polls closed a few days ago for America’s Best-Looking Cruiser annual contest...sponsored by the American Association of State Troopers (AAST). Congratulations to the Florida Highway Patrol on their threepeat win! The 2026 calendar will feature the top 13 states (based on total votes) and all proceeds will benefit the AAST. Calendars are available now for Pre-Order (for October delivery).

Learn More

Virginia State Police Add High-Powered Mustangs to Patrol Fleet

The Virginia State Police have officially deployed Ford Mustang GTs as pursuit vehicles, featuring 480-horsepower V8 engines and Performance Package upgrades.

While not curb-tested like traditional interceptors, these sleek silver-andblue Mustangs bring serious speed— and serious style—to the highway.

Learn More

Police Fleet Professional Magazine FALL/WINTER 2025

IN DUST RY N EWS

Chevy Caprice 9C1: A Forgotten Police Powerhouse Long overshadowed by the Ford Crown Vic, the Chevrolet Caprice 9C1 of the 1990s was a true high-performance patrol car—packing Corvette power, rugged construction, and serious pursuit credentials. Once a staple in police fleets, this sleeper sedan is now gaining new appreciation among collectors and car enthusiasts alike.

Learn More

Austin’s Battery-Electric Vehicles Cut Fleet Costs

Austin, Texas is emerging as a national model for police fleet electrification, deploying over 370 BEVs—including the new Chevy Blazer EV PPV—and reporting $2.5 million in savings to date. With plans to nearly double its electric fleet and expand charging infrastructure, the city’s push toward a 40% electrified fleet by 2030 is setting the pace for law enforcement and municipal agencies across the country.

Learn More

KC Police May Soon Keep Blue Lights On — Even When Not Responding

Kansas City is moving toward keeping steady blue lights on 153 patrol vehicles around the clock to boost visibility, deter crime, and improve community engagement.

Learn More

Eagan Police First to Deploy Grappler Pursuit Tool

The Eagan Police Department is the first in Minnesota — and one of the few in the Midwest — to add the Grappler Police Bumper to its fleet, a high-tech tool designed to safely stop fleeing vehicles and reduce the dangers of high-speed pursuits.

Learn More

Illinois State Police Unveil High-Tech Command Vehicle

The Illinois State Police just added a cutting-edge command vehicle to their fleet—designed to boost response and coordination during disasters, major accidents, and public events.

Learn More

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IN DUST RY N EWS

BYD Shark 6 Utes Join Police Fleet in Mexico

Oklahoma Cruiser Gets Hit by Lightning

Ghost Durangos Hit the Streets

Raleigh Police Go Greener with Electric Motorcycle

Mexico’s local police and special forces are deploying the plug-in hybrid BYD Shark 6 ute for traffic, patrol, and response duties—marking a bold shift toward electrified fleet vehicles.

Learn More

California and Missouri police are rolling out stealthy Dodge Durangos with hidden lights and ghost graphics to catch reckless drivers in the act. Designed to blend in with everyday traffic, these V8-powered patrol vehicles target speeding, tailgating, and dangerous driving—with no flashing lights until it’s too late.

Learn More

Forgotten Mopar: R-Body Police Cars Revisited

Chase Classic Motors sheds new light on Chrysler’s overlooked R-body patrol cars in their latest deep-dive video.

Learn More 12

Caught on camera—watch the dramatic moment a lightning bolt strikes a stationary police car in Newcastle, Oklahoma during a severe storm. The intense footage highlights the power of nature and the risks officers face, even while parked.

Learn More

Raleigh’s parks and greenways are getting a high-tech boost with the addition of four electric Enduro FX motorcycles to the police fleet. Donated by the Raleigh Police Department Foundation, the $78,580 contribution will enhance patrol efforts in public green spaces and support special events, with 27 officers already trained and ready to ride.

Learn More

Miami PD Adds Ram 1500 Pickups to Fleet

The new pickups enhance overall capability and provide increased cargo space, giving field supervisors more flexibility and functionality on the job.

Learn More Police Fleet Professional Magazine FALL/WINTER 2025

General Motors recently announced that its U.S. sales increased 7% in the second quarter and 12% in the 2025 first half. GM led the U.S. automotive industry in total and retail sales in the year’s first six months, with sales growth well ahead of the estimated 4% total auto industry growth. “The investments we have made in our crossovers, SUVs, and pickups – both gas and electric – along with great execution by our employees, suppliers and dealers, have made GM the engine of growth for the U.S. industry this year,” said Duncan Aldred, GM Senior VP and President of North America.

Learn More

Motorola Solutions to Acquire Silvus Technologies, a Global Leader in Mission-Critical Mobile Ad-hoc Networks

On May 27th, 2025, Motorola Solutions announced it had entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Silvus Technologies, Inc for $4.4 billion in up-front consideration. Based in Los Angeles, California, Silvus designs and develops software-defined high-speed mobile ad-hoc network (MANET) technology that enables highly secure data, video and voice communications without the need for fixed infrastructure. Silvus’ wide range of customers spans autonomous systems manufacturers, military, law enforcement and enterprises around the world.

Silvus’ technology is designed to support frontline operations in the most challenging and contested environments while Silvus’ devices mesh together to establish large, scalable and self-healing networks that adapt to continuous mobility. These robust mobile networks connect people, devices and other nodes over distance and at scale, and seamlessly support bandwidth-intensive technologies like video, sensors and drones. The companies expect to combine their exceptional engineering teams and leverage Motorola Solutions’ go-to-market footprint to reach customers globally. The acquisition is expected to close in Q3 or Q4 of 2025.

Learn More

LiveWire Unveils S2 Patrol Models for Law Enforcement and Security

LiveWire is expanding into the police and security fleet market with the launch of its new S2 Patrol models.

Designed specifically for patrol, security, and motorcade duty, these electric motorcycles offer enhanced protection, lighting, storage, and quiet, low-fatigue operation. The first fleet deal is already underway with St. Cloud, Florida, leading the charge.

Learn More

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IN DUST RY N EWS

GM Posts Strong Q2 and First Half Sales on Industry Leading Growth

IN DUST RY N EWS

LEHR and Broadwing Capital Accelerate Growth with Strategic Acquisitions in Emergency Vehicle Upfitting

BlackArch Partners is pleased to announce that East Coast Emergency Lighting Inc and its management have partnered with LEHR and Broadwing Capital to facilitate the next chapter of growth and transformation. Additionally, LEHR has announced their latest acquisition, Truckers Lighthouse, with 4 locations across Tennessee.

Jim Stommel, President at LEHR, recently commented on all the recent activity: “Last year, LEHR joined forces with Broadwing Capital to establish a prominent national presence in the Emergency Vehicle Upfitting sector. Over the past 18 years, I have had the privilege of working alongside a dedicated professional team that continues to impress me. The last six months have been particularly exhilarating as we welcomed Defender Supply and East Coast Lighting into our expanding family, marking significant milestones in our journey. My role continues as President of the LEHR, board member and advisor to many future additions to our platform.”

Learn More

CHP Unleashes Stealth Cars to Fight “Video Game-Style” Driving

Dozens of low-profile patrol vehicles are hitting California roads to target aggressive, high-speed drivers.

Learn More

Ford Prevails Again in Police Interceptor Utility Lawsuit

Ford has once again come out on top in a lawsuit involving alleged carbon monoxide leaks in the Police Interceptor Utility. A federal jury in Texas ruled in Ford’s favor, marking another legal win after years of scrutiny over exhaust leak claims. Learn more about the case and the ongoing history behind these high-profile lawsuits.

Learn More

Florida Highway Patrol Adds a C8 Corvette to Its Fleet

The Florida Highway Patrol just leveled up—with a seized 2023 C8 Corvette now patrolling the roads. Far from just a show car, this mid-engine powerhouse was taken from a drug trafficker and repurposed for active duty. Learn more about how FHP plans to put this 194-mph Corvette to work across Florida highways and beyond.

Learn More

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Police Fleet Professional Magazine FALL/WINTER 2025

When seconds count, officers can depend on the X-Lock for fast, easy gun retrieval.

The patented locking arms automatically adjust to a tight, custom fit when the gun is pressed into place.

800.831.0870 / tufloc.com15

IN DUST RY N EWS

Quick, one-handed gun access.

POLICE FLEET EXPO 2025 HIGHLIGHTS

By Sgt. Brad Brewer

Police Fleet Expo (PFE) 2025 took place, for the first time, in the beautiful city of Birmingham, AL (August 18–21) and once again, brought together the largest group of Police Fleet Professionals in North America with vehicle manufacturers, equipment manufacturers, and suppliers from around the globe. This year’s Expo Hall was SOLD OUT, as well as the host hotel, the Sheraton Birmingham!

The famous Barber Motorsports (BMS) played host to the popular Ride and Drive event (DriveX), just 40 minutes from the host hotel and convention center.

Birmingham is a city in the north-central region of Alabama, and it is the second most populous city in the state, with a population of approximately 196,000 people.

The Birmingham metropolitan area, with over 1.19 million residents, is the largest metropolitan area in Alabama, and it serves as a major regional economic, medical, and educational hub of the Deep South, Piedmont, and Appalachian regions.

A couple of pre-PFE events were held on Sunday, August 17. Dana Safety Supply hosted a Live Fire Demo of vehicle armor at a nearby range. The first 50 full-pass attendees who signed up were privy to a very informative demonstration. On Sunday evening, Federal Signal treated attendees to a festive networking event at Uptown Cantina, just a few steps from the Sheraton Birmingham Hotel.

On Monday, August 18 (Day 1), Police Fleet Expo attendees traveled by bus to the historic Barber Motorsports (BMS) facility, which provided attendees with a DriveX event second to none. The BMS park showcased a Formula 1 track for high-speed testing of vehicles, a dedicated cone course for testing new vehicle products, and an off-road course for testing off-road police special16

Police Fleet Professional Magazine FALL/WINTER 2025

F EAT URE STORY

back with several police vehicle equipment vendors displaying their latest police vehicle products.

Attendees had the opportunity to stop by each vendor and see products installed on an actual vehicle and get a feel for exactly how the equipment works, installs, and functions.

The full list of DriveX 2025 exhibitors included:

service vehicles. The high-speed course required professional drivers to take each attendee through an amazing racetrack that highlighted the performance dynamics of each of the police purpose-built vehicles, proven by GM Envolve, Ford Pro, and Dodge Law.

American Honda, AnyGlide, Dodge Law, Euroscooter, Federal Signal, Ford Pro, GM Envolve, Hammerhead Armor, Mia Dynamics, Jotto Desk, OnPoint Upfitters, Patrol EV, ProLogic ITS, Ryvid Motorcycles, Setina Manufacturing, and SoundOff Signal. Magnetic Mic, once again, supplied the bottled water hydration stations, which were very much appreciated (and needed) with temperatures over 90 degrees F for most of the day.

GM Envolve brought the Blazer EV PPV, Silverado PPV, and the Tahoe PPV. Ford Pro brought the Hybrid PIU along with an EcoBoost PIU, F150 Responder, and a Mach E. Dodge Law brought the all-new Dodge Charger EV (Dodge Law provided attendees with the retail version of the EV Charger, but the performance was incredible, with attendees lining up for a chance to see what the Dodge Charger Pursuit will bring when available).

On a separate skid pad, the manufacturers set up a large dynamic “City Pursuit” cone course that allowed attendees to drive the latest products in a realistic pursuit setting. The cone course was set up in the area designed and built by several large auto manufacturers to test and develop their products.

Also on the massive Barber Motorsports property was the off-road course developed and built by Mercedes to test their vehicles for development. Attendees were able to drive all three manufacturers’ products on the off-road course, which was situated right next to the cone course.

A motorcycle course was back at DriveX this year, as well as a test area for electric bikes. Ryvid Motorcycles allowed attendees to ride motorcycles on a skid pad area to test out their ride and handling capabilities.

Ryvid has several new additions to its electric fleet, which has become extremely popular in the law enforcement community.

Also, at the DriveX track day, “Vendor Village” was

On Tuesday, August 19, the Birmingham Convention Center hosted the OEM sessions with GM Envolve, Dodge Law, and Ford Pro. These important sessions were packed, as returning attendees know this is their one-stop shop for asking sales, marketing, or engineering questions about specific product issues.

The best part of these sessions is that attendees don’t hold back, as they are full of robust and valuable questions, along with discussions around ongoing issues.

Every year, these sessions are not only valuable to the OEMs but to the agencies as well, because you get to hear from other colleagues and departments with similar issues and how they resolved them.

The manufacturers’ sessions are also well-known for myth-busting rumors and correcting misinformation that’s out in the industry. The OEMs are very forthcoming with product information like delays, recalls, availability of parts, and production inventory 17

F EAT URE STORY

Police Fleet Expo 2025 Highlights

forecasts. If some of the information you need isn’t readily available, then these sessions are a must for next year, as it’s the one place you can fact-check anything!

The PFE Educational Tracks were back and took place over three days with vital topical training designed specifically for police fleet professionals at all levels. Sessions ranged from Fleet Management 101 (for those new to the position) to more advanced class offerings dealing with the critical issues facing the fleet industry. All of this is in addition to the invaluable Agency Dialogue Sessions.

In past years, PFE broke these sessions into three levels: Small Agency (agency with 25 vehicles or fewer), Medium Agency (up to 100 vehicles), and Large Agency (over 100 vehicles). This year, PFE removed the Medium Agency session and added it to the large Agency session, based on feedback from attendees. These sessions are a much more intimate setting for discussions around the minutiae issues that are affecting agencies day-to-day. There was a lot of good dialogue between mechanics, upfitters, fleet managers, plus representatives from Ford Pro, Dodge Law, and GM Envolve, BMW, Ryvid Motorcycles, American Honda, and Harley-Davidson Motorcycles. Problemsolving is paramount at these sessions, and they are always well-attended (even packed) because these are opportunities most fleet professionals don’t typically get.

Where else do you have a chance to hear directly from the very people who design your law enforcement vehicles and motorcycles?

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Police Fleet Professional Magazine FALL/WINTER 2025

Creating Safer Streets

F EAT URE STORY

If you’re looking for a quick recap online, Nick Off Duty does an excellent job of putting together his recap videos. Nick is always entertaining and hits the hotbutton vendors that make the show as exciting as it is.

Nick Off Duty Videos:

https://youtu.be/cppKjjQ7mnA?si=jx10HFYkJbsDuLmu Police Fleet Expo 2025 saw a SOLD-OUT show floor with a significant number of new exhibitors this year.

PFE would like to thank our regular exhibitors, while also extending a warm welcome to the following 49 first-time and/or returning companies (after a short absence) who were on our show floor this year:

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F EAT URE STORY

Police Fleet Expo 2025 Highlights

A12 Public Safety Solutions LLC https://al.ltddir.com/companies/ a12-public-safety-solutions-llc/

AC/DC Industries

https://acdcind.com/

Alabama Upfitters

www.stiversfordofmontgomery.com

American Honda

https://powersports.honda.com/ nt1100-police

AMP Global Strategies https://ampgs.com/

AnyGlide

www.anyglide.com

Decked LLC

Patrol EV

Donohoo Chevrolet

Peoria Ford

Euroshine

Plastix Plus

www.euroshine.com

www.pptexas.com

Fleetio

ProLogic ITS

www.decked.com www.donohoochevrolet.com

www.fleetio.com

Frontline Vehicle Solutions www.cocoafordfl.com

Keycafe

https://www.keycafe.com/

Mark Ficken Ford Lincoln

www.patrolev.com www.peoriaford.com

www.prologicits.com

PureForge Brakes

www.pureforge.com

Ranch Hand Public Safety

https://www. ranchhand.com/publicsafety-9832749823783278247

Brannen Motor Company

https://www.fordlincoln charlotte.com/

RFMAX Antennas

Brembo North America

MIA Dynamics USA

Santa Cruz Gunlocks

www.brembo.com

https://miadynamics.com/

Brite

Mission Vehicles

https://brite.com/

https://www.mission-made.com/

Silverback Marine

Brooks Public Safety

Mobile Comm America

Squarerigger

Buster Miles Ford

Mobilizz Inc.

Stivers Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM

https://www.brannenmotors.com/

https://brookspublicsafety.com/ https://www.bustermilesford.com/

Collective Data

https://collectivedata.com/

Custom Shrouds Inc.

https://customshrouds.com/

Darley

www.darley.com 20

https://callmc.com/ www.mobilizz.com

Mustang Dynamometer

www.arcantenna.com www.santacruzgunlocks.com www.silverbackmarine.com www.squarerigger.com

www.stiverscdjr.com

https://www.mustangdyne.com/

Stivers Ford

OnPoint Upfitters

Strobes-R-Us

https://www.onpt.us/

OnSiteDecals

www.onsitedecals.com

www.stiversfordofmontgomery.com www.strobesrus.com

The Bancorp

www.thebancorp.com Police Fleet Professional Magazine FALL/WINTER 2025

F EAT URE STORY

TouchTronics, Inc.

www.touchtronics.com

TriCounty Upfitters

www.tricountyupfitters.com

Truckers Lighthouse

www.truckerslighthouse.com

Tuffy Security Products www.tuffyproducts.com

Unity Manufacturing www.unityusa.com

VCarts

www.vcarts.com

Federal Signal Uptown Cantina Whelen Top Golf Code 3/Westin Public Safety Barber Motorsports Museum SoundOff/Setina/InterMotive/911 Circuits Cahaba Brewery

PFE continues to grow, and so does the knowledge base of the attendees. There is simply no other place for law enforcement fleet professionals to get this much information all in one place!

Vector Fleet Management

Save the date for the next Police Fleet Expo (August 2026). See you there!

A special thank you is also extended to the generous and hospitable vendors who put on the networking events each night:

Sgt. Brad Brewer is the Technical Editor of Police Fleet Professional Magazine.

www.vectorfleet.com

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F EAT URE STORY

2026 MODEL YEAR POLICE VEHICLE EVALUATIONS

Police vehicle testing continues to be a very competitive landscape with the introduction of high-tech innovations and battery-powered vehicles.

The big three Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs)—Ford Pro, GM Envolve, and Dodge Law—all make high-quality vehicles. Still, it is the testing and interpretation of the testing results that allow an agency to make informed decisions and choose the right tool for the job.

It should be made clear that no agency has the authority or accreditation to make any vehicle “Pursuit Rated.” The testing simply informs the law enforcement community that “These vehicles meet our requirements for an emergency vehicle, which includes pursuit driving.”

For decades, the two main testing facilities were Michigan State Police (MSP) Vehicle Testing and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) Vehicle Testing. While MSP continues to test annually at Grattan Raceway in Belding, MI, the track where LASD tested, the Auto Club Speedway in Fontana, CA, closed in 2023, and it is now being redeveloped into a logistics and industrial park. In 2024, the California Highway Patrol started hosting testing at its Academy in West Sacramento.

When reviewing these tests, it should be noted that both of these vehicle testing events have testing parameters that are different from each other, and the uniqueness of each test should be considered when interpreting the results. For example, MSP is simply confirming that the claims of the OEM are true and accurate, and the vehicle does what the OEM says it will do. No additional weight is added to the vehicle to replicate real-world operational conditions.

LASD adds 400 pounds of weight in the vehicle to simulate operational realities, while CHP adds 60 pounds of weight to the front and 400 pounds to the rear, to simulate the weight of police equipment.

In the Fall of 2025, Police Fleet Professional Magazine attended the two 2026 Model Year Testing Evaluations in both Michigan and California. These vehicle tests are considered the benchmark for law-enforcement vehicle evaluations. Any law enforcement agency can access the results of both of these tests online and use the results to support their purchase of new police vehicles.

LASD uses what they call a “City Street” course.

This course consists of multiple city-block distances punctuated by the various types of turns normally found in most inner-city environments. The city street course is designed to simulate the conditions encountered by most officers working in typical urban communities. The test is only conducted on vehicles offered with a factory “police package.” Since

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Police Fleet Professional Magazine FALL/WINTER 2025

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many law enforcement agencies buy “non-police packaged” vehicles, LASD also tests vehicles offered in a “special service” configuration when offered by the manufacturers. These vehicles are tested similarly, as “police package” vehicles; however, LASD does not subject them to the city street course.

LASD pushes the vehicles in a grueling 28-lap, topspeed test. All four drivers will evaluate each vehicle, thus removing any suggestion of driver bias. For this test, each driver completes seven laps around the 1.46-mile test track at the Pomona Fairgrounds in Pomona, CA, for a total of 28 timed laps. Lap times are immediately recorded via the RF telemetry signal produced by the data logger. All timing is backed up on SD cards in each unit. The fastest and the slowest lap times are eliminated, and the remaining six lap times are averaged.

LASD then begins the braking evaluation, which is conducted immediately following the preliminary handling test. The first evaluation is conducted by having the driver accelerate to 80 miles per hour and then decelerating to a stop without activating the anti-lock braking system. This procedure is repeated three additional times. After the third test, the vehicle has a five-minute mandatory cool-down period. The next evaluation incorporates accelerating the vehicle to 60 miles per hour and applying the brakes just before the anti-lock brake system activates, coming to a complete stop. This is followed by a two-minute cool-down period. During the next evaluation, the vehicle is accelerated to 60 miles per hour, and then the brakes are applied to stop the vehicle as quickly as possible, without activating the anti-lock brake system. Finally, with no cool-down, the vehicle is accelerated to 60 miles per hour, and brakes are applied with full anti-lock, simulating a panic stop.

Michigan State Police 2026 Model Year Vehicle Testing On Monday, September 15, 2025, the Michigan Department of State Police and the Michigan Department of Technology, Management, and Budget invited manufacturers and police fleet attendees to the 2026 Model Year Police Vehicle Evaluation.

Held once again at Grattan Raceway in Belding, MI (30 miles from Grand Rapids), this premier event showcased cutting-edge performance, technology, and innovation.

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New this year was the addition of almost a dozen new vendors at the track. The full list of companies included: 911 Circuits, American Honda Motor Co., Angel Armor, Berger Chevrolet, BMW Motorrad Brembo, Chrouch Communications, Dana Safety Products, Dodge Law/Jeep Law/RAM Law, Federal Signal, Ford Pro, GM Envolve, Hammerhead Armor, Harley-Davidson Motor Co., Pro-gard Products, SoundOff Signal, and Whelen.

The following vehicles participated in the 2026 Model Year testing:

GM Envolve

Chevrolet Police Tahoe 5.3L RWD Chevrolet Police Tahoe 5.3L 4WD Chevrolet Police Silverado Z7X 4WD Chevrolet Police Silverado Z71 HWD Chevrolet Police Blazer EV AWD

Dodge Law/Jeep Law/RAM Law Dodge Durango 5.7L AWD Dodge Durango 3.6L AWD RAM 2500 6.4L 4WD

Ford Pro

Ford Police Interceptor Utility 3.0L Ecoboost AWD Ford Police Interceptor Utility 3.3L Hybrid AWD Ford Police Interceptor Utility 3.3L AWD Ford Mustang Mach-E GT AWD Ford F-150 Police Responder 3.5L Ecoboost 4WD The MSP testing categories included: Acceleration Testing Objective: To determine the ability of each test vehicle to accelerate from a standing start to 60 mph, 80 mph, and 100 mph, and determine the distance to reach 100 mph and 120 mph.

Brake Testing Objective: To determine the deceleration rate attained by each test vehicle on twenty 60–0 mph full anti-lock brake stops. Each vehicle is scored on the average deceleration rate it achieves.

Brake Testing Methodology: Each vehicle is driven to the north end of the straightaway on the east side of the oval. The vehicle then begins its sequence of stops heading in a southerly direction. The vehicle is stopped five Police Fleet Professional Magazine FALL/WINTER 2025

2026 Model Year Police Vehicle Evaluations

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times at pre-determined points on the roadway.

The vehicle is then turned around and stops an additional five times again at predetermined points on the roadway in a northerly direction. After the ten stops, the vehicle drives one lap around the oval at 45 mph. This is done to cool the brakes before the second sequence. After the cool-down lap, the ten stops are repeated. The data resulting from the twenty stops is used to calculate the average deceleration rate, which is the vehicle’s score for the test.

Ergonomics and Communications Testing Objective: Rate each test vehicle’s ability to: 1. Provide a suitable environment for the patrol officer in the performance of their assigned tasks.

2. Accommodate the required communications and emergency warning equipment and assess the relative difficulty of such installations.

Testing Methodology: Utilizing the Ergonomics and Communications Form, each category is graded on a scale from 1–10, with 1 representing “totally unacceptable”; 5 representing

“average”; and 10 representing “superior”. The scores given are averaged to minimize personal prejudice for or against any given vehicle.

For the ergonomics portion of the form, a minimum of four officers, individually and independently, compare and score each test vehicle in several areas. These include comfort, convenience, instrumentation, and visibility. The installation and communications portion of the evaluation is conducted by personnel from the Michigan Public Safety Communications System. The scores are given based on the relative difficulty of the necessary installations.

Current MSP 2026 Model Year Testing Results can be found here: 2026 Model Year Police Vehicle Evaluation Preliminary Results

California Highway Patrol 2026 Model Year Vehicle Evaluation On Saturday, October 11 and Sunday, October 12, 2025, the California Highway Patrol hosted a Police 25

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! ! " ! " " " # Police Fleet Professional Magazine FALL/WINTER 2025

2026 Model Year Police Vehicle Evaluations

There were several new vendors this year; the full list of companies included: Angel Armor, Continental Tire, Dana Safety Products, Dodge Law/Jeep Law/RAM Law Federal Signal, Ford Pro, GM Envolve, Innovative Emergency Equipment Lehr, Lucid, NextGen Alpha Upfitting, Safe Fleet, Setina Manufacturing, and Whelen.

The following vehicles participated in the 2026 Model Year testing:

GM Envolve

Chevrolet Police Tahoe 5.3L RWD Chevrolet Police Tahoe 5.3L 4WD Chevrolet Police Silverado Z7X 4WD Chevrolet Police Silverado Z71 HWD Chevrolet Police Blazer EV AWD

Dodge Law/Jeep Law/RAM Law Dodge Durango 5.7L AWD Dodge Durango 3.6L AWD RAM 2500 6.4L 4WD

Ford Pro

Ford Police Interceptor Utility 3.0L Ecoboost AWD Ford Police Interceptor Utility 3.3L Hybrid AWD Ford Police Interceptor Utility 3.3L AWD Ford Mustang Mach-E GT eAWD Ford F-150 Police Responder 3.5L Ecoboost 4WD

For the second year in a row, Lucid Motors was the only Battery Electric Vehicle OEM at the CHP testing. In 2024, the Lucid Motors entry failed to complete the Pursuit Course standards due to brake failure.

The CHP testing categories included: Top Speed The objective of the top speed test is to determine the vehicle’s top speed within two miles, from a standing start on a state-maintained highway. A minimum of four runs is conducted, two in each opposing direction (to allow for grade and wind direction). The four fastest runs are recorded.

Anti-Lock Brake System Test The objective of the Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) Test is to determine the stopping distance from a speed of 90 mph. The test was conducted on a level, dry, and paved surface, with four maximum braking effort stops, with ABS activated (operating), initiated at a speed of 90 mph. The stops were conducted at two-minute intervals. Between stops, the vehicle was driven without any brake application to aid cooling for the full two minutes. After the fourth maximum braking effort stop, the vehicle was driven to aid cooling without braking for five minutes; the four maximum braking effort stops were then repeated. The stopping distance of each of the eight stops was combined to calculate the average stopping distance of the vehicle.

Vehicle Dynamics Test (2-mile track) The objective of the Vehicle Dynamics Test is to determine each vehicle’s high-speed braking, handling characteristics,

Lucid Motors

Lucid Gravity SUV/Utility All patrol vehicles were tested as delivered by the manufacturer, without exterior or interior police equipment installed. However, 60 pounds of weight was added to the front and 400 pounds to the rear to simulate the weight of police equipment. Before each test, each manufacturer had the opportunity to inspect, replace, or burnish the brakes to their respective desired specifications. The electric vehicles tested were charged to a full state of charge before each test to ensure optimal performance results (the charging equipment was supplied by each manufacturer).

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Vehicle Evaluation Test at the CHP Academy in West Sacramento, CA. This is the second year CHP has hosted this police vehicle evaluation.

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2026 Model Year Police Vehicle Evaluations and performance. The course simulates actual conditions encountered in a pursuit or emergency driving situation in the field, excluding simulated conditions. The test was conducted on the California Highway Patrol Academy high-speed track: a two-mile road racing-type course containing various radius turns and elevation changes. Each vehicle was driven by four different drivers, each driving eight laps for a total of 32 laps, to account for various driver skill levels and to improve overall lap accuracy.

Pursuit Course Test The objective of the Pursuit Course Test is to determine each vehicle’s handling characteristics and braking performance during pursuit operations. The course simulates actual conditions encountered in a pursuit or emergency driving conditions. The test is pass/fail. A failure is noted if the vehicle’s brake system overheats and catches fire.

High-Altitude Acceleration Test (ICE Vehicles only) The High-Altitude Acceleration Test was conducted at a separate location in Truckee, CA. High altitude is defined as over 5,500–6,000 feet for purposes of CHP testing. The objective of this test is to determine the ability of each vehicle to accelerate from a stop to the speed of freeway traffic, simulating building speed on the shoulder of a freeway before merging with traffic, in a highaltitude area. The test was implemented in 1992 due to feedback provided by officers working in the CHP Truckee and Fort Tejon Areas who identified poor vehicle performance when accelerating from a stop at altitude.

Current CHP 2026 Model Year Testing Results can be found here:

https://www.chp.ca.gov/programs-services/ services-information/vehicle-evaluation-programThe vehicle was subjected to a simulated pursuit course, results/ approximately four miles in length and approximately seven minutes in duration. The course consisted of MSP, LASD, and CHP all do an excellent job at testing a highway and city pursuit scenario. The vehicle is these vehicles for their suitability in front-line law subjected to three 70 mph full ABS stops, followed by enforcement. Interpretation of any test results is no more than twenty “slow and clear the intersection” the responsibility of the respective agency. The brake applications while traversing simulated city importance with which each phase is weighted streets. The “slow and clear the intersection” brake is a subjective decision that should be made by applications slowed the tested vehicle to speeds less each agency based upon that agency’s needs and than 15 mph. There is no cool-down period between deployment criteria. brake applications. The test is concluded with parking the vehicle for a five-minute observation period to Sgt. Brad Brewer is the Technical Editor for Police Fleet monitor the vehicle’s brakes for signs of fire.

Professional Magazine.

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Police Fleet Professional Magazine FALL/WINTER 2025

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F EAT URE STORY

MOTOR POOL IN THE DIGITAL AGE Re-imagining motor pool operations for law enforcement fleets A ‘motor pool’ is essentially a shared fleet of vehicles available for use by multiple drivers, typically assigned on a shift or on an as-needed basis. The practice is not new, but what is new is the technology reviving and reshaping motor pool practices in the modern era.

At the beginning of the 1900s, police departments began adopting the Ford Model T, but the cars were expensive for the time, so many officers relied on motorcycles instead. From the 1950s to the 1970s, the motor pool was a standard practice. Most of the time, they had multiple drivers per car, and everything was a centralized shared asset.

In the 1980s, police fleets in suburban and urban areas began shifting toward individually assigned vehicle units, a practice that, while operationally effective, significantly increased costs. Today, the availability of 30

digital fleet solutions has re-popularized the motor pool model due to more simplified management that allows fleets to maximize the main benefits of motor pools: cost savings and operational efficiency.

Individual Assignment Model The individual assignment model is essentially where officers take care of their ‘owned’ vehicles, and this model presents specific pros that make it a very popular model, but, as with most anything, there are also cons.

• Pros ○High accountability ○Faster response times ○Lower wear-and-tear • Cons ○Higher up-front costs ○Requires more vehicles than shifts ○Unbalanced utilization Police Fleet Professional Magazine FALL/WINTER 2025

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Motor Pool Model The motor pool model can be broken down into shiftbased, which allows assets to be assigned out at the beginning of each officer’s shift, or a hybrid approach, which marries shift-based with take-home allowances for senior officers. The hybrid model makes vehicle assignment easier, as a majority of vehicles are in a central location, and those assigned to specific officers are easier to monitor regarding accountability, since only one officer operates them.

• Pros ○Reduced fleet size and cost ○Centralized maintenance scheduling • Cons ○More wear-and-tear (multiple officers per vehicle) ○Less personal accountability As we know, not all vehicles are created equal.

Specialized assets like crime scene vans and tactical trucks are expensive and often underutilized. By placing these assets in a shared pool, departments ensure they’re only checked out as needed, reducing the total number of specialty vehicles required and ensuring high-value assets deliver maximum return on investment.

presents three core challenges. The first core challenge is shift readiness. Officers relying on shared vehicles may face delays for a car that isn’t returned, refueled, or properly equipped, but there’s also idle time that can occur when officers have to wait for keys or vehicles, which can impact response times.

And, without transparent, real-time data around vehicle status, it can be hard to know when a vehicle is in the shop or awaiting maintenance or repair, further affecting readiness.

Then there’s accountability: If everyone is responsible, no one is responsible. Because these vehicles are always on the go, wear and tear is increased, while accountability is hard to enforce. In many cases, no single officer really feels responsible for the maintenance of the vehicles, leading to problems going unaddressed.

Challenges of Manual Management Traditionally, things like key management were done mainly with a log book, a drawer of keys, or someone assigning vehicles. This kind of manual management 31

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Motor Pool In The Digital Age

The third is cost management, another area where real-time data comes into play, especially regarding total cost of ownership (TCO) for vehicles. While take-home vehicles strain budgets due to high purchase and upfitting costs, pooled models reduce acquisition cost, though they can increase maintenance expenses over time. Having transparent access to TCO and cost per mile data can shine a light on whether a hybrid motor pool model is the most cost- and efficiency-effective method for your fleet.

Digital Motor Pool Management Digital motor pool technologies eliminate many of the manual management challenges through automation and transparency. Automating data capture means no more handwritten logs or manual odometer readings. Vehicle usage, mileage, fuel consumption, and vehicle condition and status are tracked automatically through telematics. Mobile

booking with motor pool technologies makes securing a vehicle much easier and less frustrating for officers.

Using integrated technologies further helps motor pool management by collecting and consolidating data from multiple sources. Recently, Motive, the AI-powered Integrated Operations Platform, and Fleetio, the leading fleet maintenance and optimization platform, announced an expanded integration that centralizes fuel, maintenance, and telematics data, making it easier to track and monitor fleet health and costs in a single platform.

Other convenient features include rule-based vehicle assignments; motor pool systems can automatically allocate vehicles based on factors like shift schedule, unit, or vehicle health. For example, if a car has a service reminder or has a flagged issue, it’s automatically withheld from the pool and can’t be assigned until it’s repaired. Plus, each booking is tied to an officer’s profile, so if damage occurs, there’s no question about accountability. The accountability is built into the system.

We touched on how managing physical keys can be a pain point, but let’s talk about the future: keyless access. With modern technology, officers can unlock vehicles directly with their phone or a secure fob. There is no more time wasted tracking down keys, plus it reduces administration overhead and lowers long-term costs. For police departments

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Police Fleet Professional Magazine FALL/WINTER 2025

where speed and readiness are critical, keyless entry eliminates unnecessary delays and makes vehicle access as simple as tapping a screen.

“One of the biggest blind spots in traditional fleet management is understanding how vehicles are being utilized,” explains Claire Flowers, Product Manager at Fleetio. “Digital solutions make utilization metrics very transparent. Assignment histories become clearer, utilization by shift and hours becomes clearer, maintenance and repair histories become clearer, and all of those things together under one umbrella start to make things a lot more transparent. This transparency allows fleets to optimize vehicle use, which is the most effective and rapid way to improve fleet efficiency and cost.”

Implementing a Digital Motor Pool Solution Advocating for and then implementing most any new technology is easier said than done. One of the best practices for implementing a digital motor pool technology is talking to a few other police departments to see what’s worked for them and what challenges they faced. The barriers often aren’t technical so much as cultural, organizational, and human.

When it comes to the cultural barrier, it’s important to understand that everyone has an important job to do, which brings a lot of the focus to their own needs, oftentimes leading to departments not wanting shared assets. Shared pool access is actually fairly risky for them, because that means maybe they’re not ready for their shifts and the job that they’re having to do. And

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this concern is not unfounded, but the fear of being left out of critical resources leads teams to hoard vehicles even if it results in under-utilization and increased cost. However, sharing data that shows how motor pools work for the better can address this concern. Using technology to guarantee scheduling transparency can help ensure both cost-effectiveness and readiness.

If you’re looking to start implementing digital motor pool technology, find an influential voice who can say, “Hey, this is good for us,” and reinforce the reasons why. Find a champion in leadership who believes in the vision and is willing to advocate for it.

A clear and positive message goes a long way in easing concerns about adopting new technology. A lot of times, when people are fearful of the scarcity of a resource, reframing things in positive terms can be the make-or-break factor. If it’s framed as taking something away, like reducing the number of officers who have take-home vehicles, for example, you’ll encounter some resistance. But if it’s framed as gaining flexibility and resources, the message lands a little better. But you also have to draft clear policies to build fairness and consistency; make the policies easy to understand, and back them up with enforcement mechanisms.

A motor pool can offer fleets significant benefits.

Digital motor pool technologies enhance these benefits and mitigate associated challenges by automating data tracking, enabling mobile booking, improving accountability, and introducing keyless access for more efficient operations and improved readiness.

Rachael Plant is a senior content marketing specialist for Fleetio, a fleet maintenance and optimization platform that helps organizations run, repair, and optimize their fleet operations.

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COVER STORY

ALL-NEW 2026 POLARIS RANGER 500

By Police Fleet Professional Staff

Polaris Government and Defense is now offering the 2026 RANGER 500 to local, state, and federal government agencies. This all-new mid-size side-by-side utility vehicle features all the quality and reliability customers expect from Polaris’s leading off-road offerings. This budgetfriendly solution is ideal for law enforcement light-duty applications such as grounds, facilities, and maintenance tasks. The RANGER 500 is compact, easy-to-use, and practical for every type of operation, getting the job done faster. A variety of accessory options allows police departments to customize the vehicle to best suit how they’ll use it, ultimately maximizing productivity.

“Similar to all our vehicle designs, we start with the question ‘what does this customer care about’ and ‘what do they need from their vehicle,’” said Brandon Kraemer, 34

Vice President of Product Portfolio, Polaris Off-Road Vehicles. “With the new RANGER 500, value is key; but it also needs to deliver the RANGER brand’s reliability along with a practicality that is important to this customer.”

With a competitive starting price point of $9,999 (U.S. MSRP), the RANGER 500 is a reliable light-duty supplement to any police fleet, offering features straight from the factory, including a roof, front bumper, winch, and LED headlights. Backed by 70 years of Polaris innovation, the RANGER 500 was engineered with simplified controls across operations with minimal upkeep. Its compact size and agile handling make it ideal for navigating tight spaces and accessing hard-toreach areas.

Police Fleet Professional Magazine FALL/WINTER 2025

COVER STORY

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COVER STORY

All-New 2026 Polaris RANGER 500 “The RANGER has been the number-one-selling UTV brand for 27 years, and with this model, we focused on the features that matter most to government buyers— especially those looking for a right-sized solution for light-duty work,” said Dave Skog, Business Development Manager, Polaris Government and Defense.

The RANGER 500 includes a variety of standard features that provide exceptional value: User-Friendly Controls: Simple and intuitive controls make the RANGER 500 easy to use, and responsive ondemand all-wheel drive ensures smooth operation, even in the most demanding terrain.

Versatility: The dump box can haul up to 300 pounds and has a 1,500-pound towing capacity with a standard 2-inch hitch receiver that allows for easy transport to maintain outdoor facilities, saving time and energy. A chassisintegrated plow mount plate adds year-round utility for snow removal or dirt work.

Reliability and Durability: For tougher jobs, a factoryinstalled 2,500-pound winch tackles large objects or debris with ease. In addition, a factory-installed roof offers shade and protection from the elements. Factory-

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installed LED headlights also provide excellent visibility in low-light conditions.

Compact Size: Ideal for two passengers, the RANGER 500 has a compact 58.5-inch width that allows for easy storage, navigation, and maneuverability in small spaces.

Powerful Performance: A 28-horsepower engine provides ample power for tasks such as hauling tools and other supplies or materials.

Interior Storage: Convenient interior storage keeps essentials readily accessible to law enforcement personnel.

Accessory Offerings: For additional customization, an assortment of accessories is available, such as a front windshield, rear panel, and extra lighting using Polaris’ easy-to-use plug-and-play Pulse system to add another lightbar.

Maintenance and Customer Service: Hassle-free maintenance is ensured with easy access to oil, air filter, and other components. Polaris also provides comprehensive online owner resources and a

Police Fleet Professional Magazine FALL/WINTER 2025

nationwide dealer network for convenient service and support, backed by a one-year warranty.

COVER STORY

The Polaris RANGER 500 features 30 accessories that are easy to use while on the job, making the UTV a valuable, practical, and convenient addition to any department needing a light-duty vehicle at a lower price point.

To learn more about the 2026 RANGER 500 and the Polaris family of products, please visit https://military. polaris.com/en-us/brands/ranger/.

ATV/UTV Round-Up

Several other companies offer utility vehicles for police use that expand mobility and preparedness, so officers are ready to tackle the unique challenges they face on a day-today basis. Below is a brief list of some current ATV and UTV offerings available to police departments across the country.

John Deere www.deere.com/en/gator-utility-vehicles/ John Deere’s custom-engineered Special Application and Military UTVs provide heavyduty, reliable backup for first responders and active duty military. The MACH-1S4LE Law Enforcement and MACH-1XLLE Law Enforcement are Security Special Application UTVs available in gas or diesel versions. Both vehicles feature 3 cylinders, a 12-Volt battery, and a continuous variable transmission (CVT) with clutch enclosure. Other features include: rack and pinion with power steering, hydraulic disc brakes, and an aluminum cargo bed. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) is 3,400 pounds, and Payload Capacity is 1,400 pounds.

Kimtek Corp. www.kimtekresearch.com/ Kimtek’s LEOLITE® Transport Skids are police skids that transform UTVs and ATVs into Tactical Personnel Carriers for police, military, and security operations. They are ideal for

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All-New 2026 Polaris RANGER 500 www.polaris.com/en-us/off-road/ ranger/models/ranger-500/

prisoner tracking, body recovery, as well as trail, beach, and border patrol missions. The skids come in various configurations: two seats, seat with K9, seat with patient carry, two K9, and patient carry with K9.

Some of the features of the LEOLITE transport skids include: • All-aluminum tubing & diamond plate chassis • Stainless-steel grab bars • Lockable storage box for ammunition & firearms • Storage rack for duffle bags, etc.

• Removable officer seat • Removable canine box • Removable cadaver/patient carrier Can-Am www.can-am.brp.com/us/en/ Can-Am offers specific ATVs and UTVs for law enforcement and public safety use, including models like the Outlander and Defender, equipped with factory-installed emergency lights, sirens, and emergency lighting systems. BRP, the manufacturer,

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provides models with features such as integrated controls for accessories, special matte-black color schemes, and an extended warranty to serve various public safety needs, from patrols to search and rescue operations. The Outlander L and Outlander Max models are equipped with red and blue emergency lighting, selectable flash patterns, and an audible warning device.

The Can-Am Defender series is a popular choice for first responders and is available in various configurations, including the Defender Max and Defender Pro, to suit different needs such as patient transport, wildfire support, and personnel carriers. Law enforcement and security versions come with features such as integrated hand controls for lights and accessories, a matte-black finish, and factoryinstalled emergency systems, allowing officers to use them without third-party modifications.

Police Fleet Professional Magazine FALL/WINTER 2025

COVER STORY

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TODAY’S PATROL BOATS & WATERCRAFT FOR POLICE AGENCIES

By Jenn Gavigan

Not all police vehicles are land-based; for those police departments that are near lakes, rivers, or oceans, a fleet of marine vessels is imperative when patrolling waterways. Police officers rely on well-made watercraft of all shapes and sizes to complete their missions and return to port safely. The following is a round-up of the latest police and patrol boats from leading manufacturers.

Brunswick Boat Group

www.brunswickcgp.com/police-boats.html Brunswick Commercial & Government Products (BCGP), a division of the Brunswick Boat Group, has provided vessels for search & rescue, law enforcement, environmental resource management, and various commercial platforms for over 20 years.

Built for long and difficult shifts, BCGP boats are designed with crucial controls at hand, ensuring first responders have everything they need while responding to a call, even in rough water and weather.

For more than 60 years, the unsinkable hull plus exceptional design and advanced technology have delivered superior operational characteristics and in-service longevity. The unsinkable fiberglass center consoles are developed at the Brunswick Boat Group Technology Center (BBGTC), leveraging industryleading design and engineering resources, and they are built from legendary Boston Whaler models.

BCGP supports global commercial and government customer demand for vessels in new applications, existing fleet expansion, as well as the replacement of aging vessels with the 210 Guardian, 250 Guardian, 250 Justice, and 280 Justice.

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Today’s Patrol Boats & Watercraft For Police Agencies Guardian

The Guardian’s center-console design and classic unsinkable fiberglass hull create the perfect combination for a versatile search-and-rescue or patrol boat. Built for heavy loads, the user-friendly walk-around deck with low freeboard allows for adaptive operation. Just below surface level, a shallow draft enables quick planning and a stable, dry ride. The Guardian is ideal for inland lakes, rivers, intercoastal, and light coastal applications.

Justice

The deep-V hull and center-console design make the Justice ideal for offshore patrol and pursuit, cutting easily through choppy water. Whether navigating high-traffic areas or plowing through big waves, the Justice series of boats excels in challenging conditions because of its higher freeboard and pronounced chine, which all make for a softer, drier ride. The Justice is suited for large inland lakes, deep and long rivers, as well as coastal and offshore applications.

• Air/Foam hybrid collar; flat black tube fitted with auto-inflate system and rub strake • 75-gallon fuel tank • VHF radio • Garmin 12-inch touchscreen with GPS, sonar, and chart plotting • A remote spotlight fitted on the roof with controls located at the operator station If police departments want to customize their boats, below are several of the available options: • Pilothouse options • Propulsion options • Solid foam or air collar option • Navigation/electronics & communications systems • Doors, windows & seating

• Power systems • Shock-mitigating seats • Fire pump rated at 400 GPM • Lighting • FLIR • Davit • Paint • Trailer

Lake Assault Boats www.lakeassault.com

Lake Assault Boats’ patrol vessels exemplify maritime security, so law enforcement agencies can safeguard their waters with precision and power.

With cutting-edge technology and unmatched craftsmanship, they are meticulously designed for superior performance, ensuring reliability in the most critical situations and missions.

Police departments can design their dream vessel with Lake Assault’s interactive Boat Builder tool, a unique feature that allows departments to visualize and customize their ideal boat. Select from various styles, sizes, and features to create a boat that truly resonates with the mission at hand.

Lake Assault patrol boats include the following: 22-foot Inland Rhib, 24-foot Offshore Rhib, 33-foot Military Rhib, and 30-foot High-Performance Rhib.

Some of the standard features of these vessels include: • Twin (2) 200-horsepower engines, stainless-steel props

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MetalCraft Marine

MetalCraft Marine

www.metalcraftmarine.com MetalCraft Marine’s Interceptor model line continues very strong with models from 22 feet to 45 feet. All Interceptor models provide the soft, dry ride they are known for, and all are available or convertible to a robotic unmanned version. The extra-thick bottom plating of 5/16-inch with added beaching shoe can break through 4–5 inches of ice when needed. The Interceptor is designed to ISO 12215 Category B waves up to 16 feet. The vessel can bank 45 degrees in a hard overturn and has an amazingly short turning radius. There is no side slip or roll-out, and the outboard props never let go or cavitate, even in a triple-engine configuration.

Police Fleet Professional Magazine FALL/WINTER 2025

MetalCraft Marine

Royal Canadian Mounted Police

Recent deliveries include 4 x 27-foot highperformance models for the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). The open center console T-top is powered by 300-horsepower Merc Seapros and reaches 58 mph. The RCMP selected a Raymarine/ FLIR electronics suite. The T-top has a roll-up/down enclosure with fore and aft roll-up doors. The full canopy enclosure has a diesel heater for heat and windshield defrost, and is toasty in winter conditions.

The enclosure has four Shoxs seats—high-back, fullsize forward, and flip-up jockey seats aft, and the seats are deck track-mounted. The gun locker just aft of the seats also has a computer shelf for reporting and data collection. The wing collar was made extra wide for use as a side deck when going forward. In high-speed bump testing, the RCMP were surprised by how the foam collar does not create a bounce when coming alongside hard.

Halton, Ontario Police

The Halton Police Department in Ontario, Canada, recently took delivery of a 34-foot Interceptor with triple Suzuki 350-horsepower counter-rotating prop engines. The counter-rotating props add additional torque on take-off for larger, heavier boats, where prop cavitation can occur with smaller props designed for higher speeds. The Suzuki engines come with a black matte finish. The electronics package, also done by Raymarine, adds multiple Axiom screens and CHIRP side-scan sonar. The radar dome and FLIR are in a glossy black finish, as are the antennas. The paint color is a gunmetal black-grey finish.

The Halton boat also features a four-person enclosure with the diesel heater option. Seats are

by Shockwave, also with aft fold-up jockey seats, and a similar gun locker was provided. Outside of SAR duties, the boat will also share in anti-smuggling missions. The forward cuddy has 5-foot, 11-inch

F EAT URE STORY

headroom and shelving for duffel bags and/or tool boxes, and/or a microwave. There is a lot of room for a porta-potty in addition to a hinged-up hatch for console access to all wiring.

USVI Department of Planning & Natural Resources Over the course of Fall 2024 and Spring 2025, the U.S. Virgin Islands’ Department of Planning & Natural Resources (DPNR) took delivery of 2 x 27-foot and 2 x 34-foot Interceptor models for the islands of St. Croix and St. Thomas. The St. Thomas boats will also patrol St. John’s Island. The two 27ers are open T-top and have twin Merc or Yamaha 300s, based on which

MetalCraft Marine

island offered the best service support. The two 34s have triple 300 Merc or Yamahas. In these islands, the winter winds blow hard all winter and can make the waves a bit unnerving in a small boat, with 6- to 10foot waves the norm (and not the largest!).

All boats feature Raymarine electronics, and all were fitted with the Ray AIS 5000 with Blue Force Tracker.

This amazing piece of equipment helps them maintain targets and allows for encrypted communication between officers. All four boats have Shoxs 6300 bulkhead-mounted suspension seats with a drop-out seat rest. The seats can withstand 8 G’s of force.

The 34s are intended for longer stints at sea with large-capacity air conditioners powered by Westerbeke generators. The sliding side doors and windows make the boats very comfortable on warm days without air conditioning. The Interceptor spotter windows are notable as when in a hard overturn, the side spotters are in line with the helmsman’s eyes to see traffic in their immediate direction, a big safety feature.

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Today’s Patrol Boats & Watercraft For Police Agencies

Metal Shark Boats

www.metalsharkboats.com/law-enforcement/ Metal Shark is a leading designer and builder of custom, welded aluminum law enforcement vessels for state, local, and municipal police agencies, with a continually growing list of operators. With an in-house team of over 60 engineers and naval architects and nearly 2,000 total vessels delivered to date, Metal Shark offers law enforcement agencies a wide range of proven hulls and unmatched design expertise. Carefully considering the challenges of modern law enforcement missions, Metal Shark developed a complete portfolio of next-generation patrol boats offering modern, mission-enhancing features, with each model based on a globally proven hull design. The result is a professional-grade patrol boat that provides greater comfort, efficiency, and safety to police officers.

Metal Shark understands that law enforcement officers spend the majority of their on-water patrols working between the console, helm seat, and the sides of the boat. Metal Shark’s center-console law enforcement models feature an oversized integrated hard top with drip rails to offer protection from the elements during long shifts on the water. Fullheight, three-panel tempered glass windshields and available canvas enclosures add extra protection for comfort. The helm and overhead electronics pod have been ergonomically optimized, with vessel controls, switches, and electronics placed for easy, intuitive operation. A large weather-tight in-dash storage compartment with 12-volt USB power supply allows for the storage and operation of laptops and printers.

For law enforcement use, the entire helm area features glare-resistant, matte-finish blackout coating to enhance helm visibility in low-light conditions.

And most importantly, flat obstruction-free floors and wide walkways allow easy access all around the boat. When working alongside another boat, officers will appreciate the heavy-duty foam coaming pads and well-placed toe rails that make it easier to safely lean out of the vessel.

The Defiant-class pilothouse law enforcement vessels from Metal Shark provide officers a tactical advantage with the latest advancements in crew comfort, efficiency, operability, and safety. One example of Metal Shark’s innovation is their 44

signature Pillarless Glass pilothouse. This design significantly improves helm visibility by reducing the dangerous blind spots common with the industry’s legacy pilothouse designs, which feature small, framed windows. Pillarless glass technology increases visibility and awareness, especially while operating in traffic on crowded waterways, during night missions, or while operating in inclement weather.

Metal Shark continues to gain law enforcement customers by designing and building boats with proven, durable aluminum construction for the longest possible vessel life. Metal Shark’s militaryhoned serialized manufacturing processes ensure the construction of high-quality vessels, supported by a stock boats program that can reduce lead times to 30 days or less in some cases. Metal Shark further supports law enforcement and other first responder customers by providing outstanding customer service and technical support, helping law enforcement customers keep their boats on the water and in service.

Metal Shark sells directly to U.S. federal, state, local, and municipal agencies and welcomes inquiries from outside the United States as well. For qualified U.S. federal government agencies, Metal Shark products are available for purchase utilizing the General Services Administration (GSA) Supply Schedule 084. Their GSA pricing may also be utilized by state, county, and municipal agencies that qualify under the 1122 Counterdrug Program. Metal Shark’s sales staff is adept at helping law enforcement agencies navigate GSA pricing and federal grant processes.

Moose Boats, LLC

www.mooseboats.com Moose Boats, LLC, a division of Lind Marine LLC, builds boats designed to meet a variety of missionspecific applications for law enforcement, fire/ rescue, security, and military applications. Moose Boats has constructed and delivered over 100 vessels of similar design for the U.S. Navy, plus various law enforcement and firefighting agencies nationwide.

Moose Boats is widely known for its fast and stable hull design coupled with powerful water-jet propulsion, which is well-suited to meet missioncritical requirements. With their durability, sensible design, and attention to detail, Moose Boats’ M1, M2, and M3 boat types are custom-designed to meet Police Fleet Professional Magazine FALL/WINTER 2025

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Moose Boats, LLC

the safety, reliability, and durability requirements for all law enforcement patrol boats.

Other equipment includes ICOM VHF radios and department radios.

King County Sheriff’s Office

Munson Boats

The King County Sheriff’s Office Marine Division in Washington has selected Moose Boats to build a new, custom diesel-electric hybrid patrol boat. The model M1 will be 46 feet long and powered by two Volvo Penta D11-625HP diesel engines integrated with inline twin Dan Foss electric motors—a first of its kind for public safety.

King County Sheriff’s Office was able to purchase this vessel by utilizing GSA (Government Services Agency) discounted pricing with a generous grant made possible by Washington State’s Climate Commitment Act (CCA) funding. The CCA supports Washington’s climate action efforts by putting cap-and-invest dollars to work, reducing climate pollution, creating jobs, and improving public health. Information about the CCA is available at www.climate.wa.gov.

This vessel build will be a close collaboration between Hamilton Jet (which has designed the electric propulsion system), Volvo Penta, and Moose Boats.

Current battery technologies manufactured by Corvus Battery will enable the vessel to run solely under electric propulsion for up to two hours at 5 knots.

Integrated diesel drive engines will act to replenish batteries at a rapid rate, with an electric motor boost to enhance upper-end speed performance.

Hamilton AVX Express will allow for tight-quarter maneuverability through joystick controls with Jet Anchoring capabilities. This system also includes a handheld remote that will enable the vessel to be piloted from different places within the confines of the cabin. A full complement of Raymarine Electronics will integrate radar, chart-plotter, AIS, depth sounder, and rear-facing camera. A separate, sophisticated tow sonar will have monitoring capability within the climate-controlled pilot house.

www.munsonboats.com/models/patrol/ Law enforcement is one of the most demanding of vessel applications. It requires a special type of craft that can do everything well. Whether performing a water rescue, recovery operation, or pursuit of a fleeing fugitive, a Munson Patrol Boat does it all with safety, reliability, and performance.

High-performance hulls are available in catamaran and deep-V landing craft, as well as Munson’s Chinook pointed bow. In addition, Munson’s signature large drop-down bow doors add life-saving utility for rescue operations. Combine that with the choice of power, including outboard, sterndrive, or waterjet, and law enforcement agencies have a boat that is ready for duty.

Munson Boats

Lake Havasu, AZ Police

The Lake Havasu, AZ Police selected the Munson 28-foot Packman as a patrol and dive/rescue vessel.

Outfitting includes port and starboard dive doors, dive bottle racks, a 500-pound lifting davit, and a bow door dive ladder. A large canvas bimini top provides excellent shade protection during hot days. Additional outfitting includes a Garmin 8610xsv multifunction 45

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BUILT TO BACK YOU UP.

The all-new 2026 Harley-Davidson® Police Road Glide® Upgraded with the Milwaukee-Eight® VVT 121 Engine, Skyline™ TFT display, Factory-Installed Police Lighting and Siren, Adjustable Seat, and more.

Performance that answers the call when it matters most.

Visit H-D.com/Police or Email FleetRep@Harley-Davidson.com to Learn More. ©2025 H-D or its affiliates. H-D, Harley, Harley-Davidson and the Bar & Shield Logo are among the trademarks of Harley-Davidson Motor Company

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Police Fleet Professional Magazine FALL/WINTER 2025

Today’s Patrol Boats & Watercraft For Police Agencies

Ocean Craft Marine

Ocean Craft Marine

www.oceancraftmarine.com Ocean Craft Marine (OCM) is a privately held manufacturer of world-class inflatable and rigid-hull inflatable boats (RHIBs), serving both commercial and military markets. With a commitment to innovation, safety, and performance, OCM designs and constructs advanced watercraft tailored to the diverse needs of professional mariners, first responders, and defense organizations.

Every OCM vessel is built in a state-of-the-art, ISO 9001-certified facility, where the company maintains full control over the entire manufacturing process—from inflatable tube sets and fiberglass hulls to consoles and major accessories. This vertically integrated approach ensures exceptional quality, consistency, and durability across the entire product line. Utilizing more than a decade of racing expertise, OCM’s specialized, in-house design and technical teams engineer hulls and tube geometries that deliver superior handling, responsiveness, seaworthiness, and safety in the most demanding conditions.

The OCM Law Enforcement RIBs are engineered with outstanding handling and high-performance hulls, reinforced by advanced safety features and missionfocused designs. Each vessel is built to be strong, providing agencies with reliable platforms for patrol, interdiction, and rapid response operations.

The Law Enforcement line includes both fiberglass GRP boats with OCM’s exclusive Air Hull® design and aluminum FoamShield® hulls, ranging from 6.5 meters to 13 meters. These boats are available in open, T-top, and cabin configurations, with air or Hyb Foam® D-tube collars for maximum buoyancy and stability.

Popular models such as the 6.5 LE, 8 LE, 9.5 LE, and 12 LE have been delivered to large agencies, including NOAA, Texas Highway Patrol, and multiple sheriff’s offices across the country. Fully customizable, OCM law enforcement boats integrate advanced electronics, navigation, and communication suites with mission-specific options, such as diver notches, shock-mitigating seating, thermal-imaging cameras, and weapon mounts. This turnkey yet adaptable approach ensures every craft is truly mission-ready— built to make a patrol officer’s job easier, faster, and safer.

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display, Whelen 100-watt siren, blue LED lightbar, search light, solar battery charger, tow post, and engine guard.

In addition, Ocean Craft Marine has spent the last two and a half years on an industry collaboration called Project Perfect Storm, an 11.5M aluminum rigid-hull inflatable boat they built to reduce human factors and g-forces felt by the operators onboard high-speed boats. Ocean Craft Marine partnered with both the Maritime and Defense industries to accomplish this goal. For more information, please contact David Haines at david@oceancraftmarine.com or visit www. oceancraftmarine.com/project-perfect-storm/.

SAFE Boats International www.safeboats.com

For nearly three decades, SAFE Boats International has been synonymous with performance, safety, and reliability in patrol and emergency response vessels.

From local law enforcement and fire departments to federal and international agencies, SAFE Boats are trusted wherever mission success depends on readiness in the harshest and most demanding marine environments.

SAFE Boats International

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Today’s Patrol Boats & Watercraft For Police Agencies

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Founded in 1996 and proudly 100-percent employee-owned, SAFE Boats International builds every vessel in Bremerton, WA, with one clear purpose—to protect those who protect us. Each boat is designed to give operators confidence in the storm, combining proven aluminum hull construction, advanced shock-mitigating seating, and ergonomic layouts optimized for high-speed response and all-weather endurance.

SAFE Boats International

SAFE Boats are built for those who protect and serve on the water. They are utilized for a variety of mission profiles: port security, patrol, boating safety, marine environmental protection, law enforcement, first response, drug interdiction, and search and rescue. Because these vessels must be able to perform any of these tasks at any given time, SAFE Boats has developed specialized option packages to meet the requirements of state and local law enforcement agencies.

Among SAFE’s most common patrol and sheriff’s office models are the 33-foot Full Cabin (33FC) and the 29-foot Walk Around Cabin (29WAC). The 33FC remains a top choice for agencies seeking offshore capability, comfort, and performance. The cabin comfortably seats four with shock-mitigating seats and a dedicated workstation, providing exceptional visibility and control in rough seas. The design allows officers to patrol confidently in open waters while maintaining crew comfort during long shifts.

By contrast, the 29WAC’s layout is optimized for easy deck maneuverability—ideal for coastal and harbor patrols where quick movement around the cabin and tight quarters operations are critical.

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The walk-around design makes boarding, towing, and working the deck safe and efficient, offering officers maximum versatility during law enforcement or rescue operations. Recent deliveries include a 33FC for the Cleveland Police Department and a 29WAC for the San Diego Police Department, both customized to each agency’s specific mission profile.

SAFE’s latest innovation—the 41-foot Full Cabin Offshore Interceptor (41FC)—marks the next generation of high-performance law enforcement vessels. Designed for extended-range patrols and open-water pursuit, the 41FC Offshore Interceptor features a deep-V aluminum hull with SAFE’s collar system that enhances stability and performance at speed. Configurable with quad or triple outboards or twin inboards with waterjets, the vessel offers integrated helm electronics, crew accommodations, and optional ballistic protection.

A recent example is the 41-foot Full Cabin Offshore Interceptor delivered to the Massachusetts Environmental Police, purpose-built for their demanding offshore enforcement and fisheries protection missions. The vessel provides exceptional range, speed, and crew comfort—key attributes for agencies operating in dynamic coastal and offshore conditions.

Silverback Marine

Silverback Marine

www.silverbackmarine.com Silverback Marine is a bespoke Marine Design entity located in Tacoma, WA, which also owns a manufacturing facility that is located on Commencement Bay, Puget Sound. Known for their

Police Fleet Professional Magazine FALL/WINTER 2025

F EAT URE STORY

Instead of air cavities like traditional stepped hulls, the hull features angled deflectors that redirect spray water to generate forward thrust and lift. This reduces drag and slamming and dramatically enhances ride comfort and efficiency.

Key benefits include: • 30–50 percent reduction in G-forces, decreasing slamming, and improving crew endurance • Up to 35 percent greater fuel efficiency compared to conventional monohulls • Significant cost savings over the vessel’s lifespan for public agencies Silverback Marine

unique ‘co-design with the customer’ approach, they have a highly experienced team of staff inhouse solely focused on marine design, hydrostatics, and mechanical systems. Comprehensive, detailed client meetings are the backbone of their customer experience. Their first response boats include the Sherpa LE, Apache EMT, and Grizzly LE. Silverback Marine completed sea trials on the first of its Grizzly LE patrol boat platforms. Developed specifically for bay and inland marine patrol units, this unique craft was initially designed based on feedback and input from a wide range of marine law enforcement agencies.

Common themes that emerged include:

Paired with an outboard engine and 23-degree deep-V deadrise, the hull design offers agile handling and a top speed of 60+ mph—critical for rapid law enforcement deployment.

Silver Ships

www.silverships.com/marine-sector /law-enforcement/ Silver Ships law enforcement boats have the speed to quickly respond to an emergency. Built with durability in mind, Silver Ships vessels will last for decades, as their all-aluminum patrol boats are designed and manufactured to accommodate versatile law enforcement missions, including: policing safe practices for recreational boaters, fisheries enforcement, search and rescue, or any other patrol mission.

• Existing designs lead to operator fatigue from rough rides and poor ergonomics • Need for a bow ramp access for easy beach landings • Requirement for improved shelter, safety gear storage, and deck layout • Ability to turn sharper at higher speeds • From these insights came a clear mission: Set a new industry benchmark for the 21-foot law enforcement patrol boat category.

At the heart of each Silverback Marine vessel is Petestep’s patented Spray Deflector Technology—a revolutionary alternative to traditional stepped hulls.

Silver Ships

Candlewood Lake Authority

Silver Ships recently delivered three Ambar 600 patrol boats to the Candlewood Lake Authority in Sherman,

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Today’s Patrol Boats & Watercraft For Police Agencies CT. Providing marine security and assistance for lake visitors and residents, these patrol boats highlight Silver Ships’ ongoing partnership in supporting safety and emergency response across Candlewood Lake and the surrounding communities.

Specifications of the AM600 include: • Hull Length: 20 feet • Beam: 7 feet • Power: Single Suzuki 300-hp outboard with a dual prop system • Topside Configuration: Enclosed center console

Silver Ships

Tarrant Regional Water District

Silver Ships delivered a law enforcement/patrol boat to the Tarrant Regional Water District (TRWD) in Fort Worth, TX. The Freedom 23 workboat will be used for TRWD’s patrol and law enforcement activities on four lakes used for boating, fishing, and other recreational water activities in North Texas.

Specifications of the Freedom 23 include:

Silver Ships

• Hull: 23 feet • Beam: 8 feet, 4 inches • Power: Single Mercury Verado® 300HP Outboard • Topside Configuration: Enclosed center console

Texas Coast Guard

Maine Marine Patrol

Specifications of the SPC-LE2 include:

Specifications of the AM700 include:

• • •

• Hull: 23 feet • Power: Single Mercury 350HP Outboard • Topside Configuration: Enclosed center console

Silver Ships has delivered the seventh specialpurpose craft, law enforcement, second-generation (SPC-LE2) vessel to a U.S. Coast Guard station in Texas. The response vessels are in use by the U.S. Coast Guard and are designed for law enforcement, search and rescue, coastal security, and environmental protection missions.

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Hull Length: 36 feet (11m) Beam: 10 feet Power: Triple Mercury Verado 300hp

Silver Ships has delivered four Ambar 700 vessels to the Maine Marine Patrol Bureau of the Maine Department of Marine Resources. The vessels are used for enforcing state and federal fishing regulations, search and rescue, public health, and strengthening maritime security in coastal and tidal areas of Maine.

Police Fleet Professional Magazine FALL/WINTER 2025

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