By Phoebe Wall Howard
Detroit Free Press
DETROIT — A faster, more tricked-out Ford F-150 Police Responder is available just in time for government bid cycles this spring, Ford announced Tuesday.
The pursuit-rated pickup truck can reach 120 mph and offers Police Engine Idle that allows officers to remove the vehicle key and leave a running truck while keeping power to lights and sirens running.
This F-150 helps officers who need to "transition from busy urban streets to dusty country roads," Ford said in a news release. It's especially helpful for departments that need to tow a boat, horse trailer or mobile command center with a standard towing capacity of 7,000 pounds and available towing capacity of 11,200 pounds.
The automaker prides itself on building a vehicle that performs well on dry pavement as well as wet, slick and less stable surfaces. Available technology includes wireless software updates to prevent disruption of patrols, Ford said.
Law enforcement agencies have said they want more towing, hauling and off-road capability but they've been concerned about speed and handling, said Greg Ebel, Ford police vehicle brand manager. "Whether suburban police departments, border patrol agents or rural sheriffs, officers never know where the job might take them."
These vehicles come standard with a 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine with 400 horsepower and 500 pound-feet of torque. The all-terrain tires are designed to handle fast acceleration. Technology in this vehicle is designed to aid police officers, allowing them to "carry more speed when cornering — a rare benefit in a pickup truck," Ford said.
This F-150 is designed to provide more hip and shoulder room than any other pursuit-rated vehicle, Ford said. A new factory-installed center console is available with an upgrade that allows for writing and computer work.
The vehicle features built-in steel "intrusion plates" in both front seat backs for officer safety.
The F-150 Police Responder is assembled at Kansas City Assembly in Claycomo, Missouri. Starting prices vary based on government bid agreements and the company doesn't share bid ranges, Ford said.