Celebrating 75 Years of Ford Police Vehicles
Celebrating 75 Years of Ford Police Vehicles
Posted on February 16, 2025
The Ford Motor Company is celebrating 75 years of providing dedicated police vehicles, marking a rich history that began with the debut of its first police package vehicle in 1950. However, Ford’s association with law enforcement dates back even further, to 1915, when the Oakland, California police department transitioned its entire fleet to Ford models. This commitment to serving the needs of law enforcement has only grown stronger over the decades, leading to a lineup of specialized vehicles that continues to evolve.
The 1950 police package was a game-changer for law enforcement, offering tailored features and a choice of three engines designed for duty-specific performance. Its popularity was immediate, with the New York Police Department placing a groundbreaking order for 430 units, the largest single purchase by a law enforcement agency at the time. By 1952, Ford introduced the “Interceptor” name for its high-powered V8 engine, a branding that would later define an entire generation of police vehicles. The momentum continued into the 1980s, with iconic models like the Mustang police car and the LTD Crown Victoria becoming staples in law enforcement fleets.
The Crown Victoria Police Interceptor, introduced in 1992 as its own model, became a dominant force in law enforcement. By 1988, the Crown Vic accounted for 85 percent of police pursuit vehicle sales in North America, solidifying its status as the cruiser of choice for countless agencies. Though production of the Crown Vic ended in 2012, Ford ensured a seamless transition with the launch of next-generation Police Interceptor models based on the Taurus and Explorer. These vehicles introduced advanced safety features and all-wheel drive, setting a new standard in performance and reliability for law enforcement.
Today, Ford’s police lineup is more robust and versatile than ever. It includes the all-new 2025 Expedition SSV, the Police Interceptor Utility, the F-150 Police Responder, the F-150 Lightning Pro SSV, and the Transit Prisoner Transport Vehicle. These vehicles are designed to meet the diverse needs of modern law enforcement, from high-speed pursuits to prisoner transport. As Ford looks to the future, its legacy of innovation and service to law enforcement continues to thrive, cementing its position as a trusted partner for agencies across North America.
