Our presentation is divided into the following areas: vehicles; motorcycles and accessories; emergency lighting and sirens; and vehicle accessories. Grab a cup of coffee, sit back and keep a notebook handy as you prepare your shopping list – courtesy of POLICE and SECURITY NEWS.

Police Vehicles

In alphabetical order, I will share with you what’s new from the “Big Three” and let you know how they compared with their competition in Michigan.

DaimlerChrysler Corporation

The biggest news from Mother Mopar is that they can now boast they produce the fastest production police car in the marketplace. They have won the crown worn for years by GM with their Camaros and Caprice LT-1s. The Dodge Intrepid placed first in both critical MSP speed tests. The first performance test conducted by the MSP is timing acceleration to 100 mph. This represents the “catch” time which is so important to traffic officers. The quickest of the patrol sedans was the Intrepid Police Interceptor (by almost one second) over the Ford which was in turn a second and a half faster than the Impala. Although the Impala and the Crown Vic were quicker out of the hole, it’s “who makes it to the finish line first” which counts. By 60 mph, the Dodge tied the Ford and already was a tenth of a second faster than the Chevy.

The second MSP test is top speed. At the end of the last acceleration run, the drivers continue to accelerate the car around the 4.7 mile oval track. The highest speed recorded anywhere on the course is the top speed of record. The fastest of the patrol sedans was the Dodge Intrepid at 136 mph, followed by the Ford Police Interceptor at 128 mph and the Chevrolet Impala at 126 mph.

The 2003 Intrepid boasts enhanced ABS brakes and they helped to improve their test scores over last year. The MSP has established a maximum stopping distance for large patrol sedans, for both rear-wheel-drive (Police Interceptor) and front-wheel-drive (Impala, Intrepid) vehicles. The current MSP brake testing includes two 90 mph full pedal stops to warm the brakes, followed by six 60 mph full pedal stops for scoring. After a cooldown period, the 90 mph and 60 mph stops are repeated. The best ten out of 12 stops from 60 mph are averaged for the final deceleration rate. This is then converted to a projected stopping distance from 60 mph.

The MSP requirements for a passing grade in the brake test is under 149.7 feet for the large RWD sedans and under 149.1 feet for the FWD sedans. The Intrepid achieved quicker deceleration rates than the Impala and had a three and a half feet shorter projected stopping distance than the Crown Vic.

Other new features of the 2003 Intrepid include a higher volume power steering pump for improved steering; new options include side air bags and keyless remote entry systems.

The biggest news from DaimlerChrysler is that they now also offer turnkey police cars, fully equipped and customized to a department’s specs. Following the trend established by GM and Ford, DaimlerChrysler has done them one better by offering more options and recognizable “brand-name” equipment in their three levels of outfitting.

DaimlerChrysler “upfitting” is handled by Canfield Equipment Service of Warren, MI. Canfield was established in 1978 and has over 12 years of law enforcement experience.

The first of three packages offered is titled “Transfer Preparation” and lists headlight and taillight flashers; a siren speaker; a trunk mounted slide-out radio tray; and a full wiring harness as major components. This package is offered to allow prompt equipment installation by the customer. Options for this package include prisoner partitions and plastic seating; several strobe light configurations (mirror, corners, sides, rear); deck mounted directional lights; a console; light and siren controls; power supply; and push bumpers.

Police package two is titled “Surveillance Vehicle” and maintains a stock vehicle appearance. Package two includes package one plus front and rear corner strobes; a windshield mounted LED flasher; and remote siren and light controls in the trunk operated by a concealed switch. The option list for this package is the same as for package one.

The third package is named the “Patrol Car” and is described as “the ultimate package for police pursuit vehicles.” It also includes basic package one plus a 44 inch light bar with strobes; alley and takedown lights in a variety of flash patterns and color choices; rear deck strobes; a full feature light and siren controller; and an aluminum console. Of course, all the other options (such as the prisoner modifications and additional lights) are available in this package, too. Canfield offers, by far, the most complete police package available in the field and they use brand-name subproviders, such as Whelen, Havis-Shields, and Setina. In addition, they offer two to three week build times for their up-fits and a three year/36,000 mile warranty on the equipment used.

Ford Motor Company

FOMOCO continues to be the sole provider of what many departments feel is the only true police sedan – a V-8 powered, rear-wheel-drive four-door. Proudly wearing the “Police Interceptor” nameplate, it is now the most frequently seen police car on the streets and highways of America. Of course, this car is not without controversy, but, as reported in the September/October 2002 issue of POLICE and SECURITY NEWS, Ford successfully defended their cruiser at NAFA. We won’t discuss the gas tank fire issue at this time; we’ll concentrate on what’s new with the blue oval cruiser.

And, it’s quite a list – the all new 2003 Interceptor frame features a hydroformed straight front rail design surrounding many other innovations. Starting at the front, you’ll find an enhanced performance oriented front suspension system is now standard on all Police Interceptor models. Springs and shocks have been redesigned to provide improved ride and handling control with a better road feel.

A new rack and pinion steering system is designed to provide improved steering and tighter turning circles. It boasts three rotations from lock to lock. That should please inner city officers who execute a zillion turns per tour.

Ford engineers did not overlook the stopping capabilities, either. The now standard ABS braking system features revised friction material to enhance vehicle braking efforts and wear characteristics, in addition to thicker rotors and vented rear rotors. Ford’s venerable 4.7L SFPI engine has a new variable speed electrical fan and (by December) will feature antiknock sensors. Those horses will be shod with new Goodyear Eagle RS-A Plus tires in P225/60VRx16 size for enhanced traction on wet or snow covered surfaces, improved tread life, and increased resistance to flat spotting.

The folks at Dearborn have not overlooked the cockpit, either. The interior now has higher headrests, cup holders and a power point which provides six vehicle function signals. Side air bags are now available as an option and, by year’s end, optional laminated side security glass will be available.

The 2003 Interceptor performed well at the MSP tests, although it was a bit slower than last year. It took about two seconds longer to reach 100 mph and the top speed dropped from 129 to 128 mph. It did stop a little quicker than last year, but MSP estimates it will eat up more asphalt while stopping (148.6 feet versus 139.9 feet in 2001). The CVPI did outaccelerate Chevrolet’s Impala and bettered its top speed, plus it stopped in shorter distances than the Bow Tie.

But, a Crown Vic, which, in the words of an MSP attendee, “had everyone running to the fences when it passed,” was a surprise Ford unveiled at Michigan. It was a normal appearing Crown Vic which the reps called a “2005” prototype. All similarities ended when the hood was raised because Ford engineers had replaced the engine with the 32 valve SPFI from the Mercury Marauder.

Unless you’ve been on a yearlong trek to conquer Mount Everest, you know that, earlier this year, Ford released the much awaited Marauder. This all black beauty features the four valves per cylinder engine, a host of innovations, and rides on 17" polished rims. It was a snap to drop this engine into an Interceptor since they share the same assembly line in St. Thomas, Canada.

Although this car was not in official competition, it was put through all the tests and it blew away everything on the course! With a top speed of 141 mph and the quickest acceleration of any vehicle tested this year, this may be Ford’s answer to the LT-1 Caprice.

Ford displayed its complete SUV lineup in Orlando and tested them all in Michigan, too. The “E Cars” (Explorer, Expedition and Excursion) all have law enforcement applications, but are not rated for pursuit. The all new Explorer (in 2WD mode) beat its nearest competition – the 2WD Chevrolet Tahoe. The Tahoe was a bit quicker, but failed to break the 100 mph barrier, whereas the Explorer topped out at 101 mph. The Tahoe stopped more quickly, but the MSP estimated it would take five feet less to bring the Ford to a halt from 60 mph.

Ford also tested their Expedition in both 2WD and 4WD configurations. Neither had any direct competition, but both did hit 100 mph and their stopping times were better than some sedans.

General Motors

GM was back with their 9CI FWD Impala; the 9C3 Undercover Impala; and the 2WD and 4WD Special Service Tahoes. They continue to offer a 4WD Hummer, called the HMCS Tactical Vehicle. The Impala, Tahoe and Hummer were all tested at MSP, but more on that later.

The folks at GM did unveil a new vehicle – the 15A Package Chevrolet Express Van billed as a prisoner transport vehicle. This van features an all new body design which includes an industry first – an opening left side passenger door (available in regular wheelbase only). Powered by a 6L V-8, the Express is available with a capacity of up to 15 passengers and the option of All Wheel Drive (AWD). Prisoner transport is a small, but certainly important, element of law enforcement fleets.

But, back to GM’s “bread-and-butter” police product – the Impala. The 2003 model has some improvements over last year. They have new transmission and engine coolers and an increased speed limiter (electronic full cutoff). The top speed was increased to 129 mph, although the test mule at MSP failed to get there, topping out at 126 mph instead. Carpeting is now optional, as is a shorter gearshift lever for equipment clearance.

GM has expanded its “turnkey” program for the 9C1 and 9C3 Impalas. It is now possible to order a complete turnkey police car (from your local GM dealer) – which can even include graphics – through a program called “OEM Second Stage Manufacturing” by Kerr Industries Limited of Oshawa, Ontario. Kerr works closely with vehicle engineers to design upfitted and converted automobiles to OEM standards in relatively small production runs.

How did GM’s cars do in Michigan? Last year’s Impala was milliseconds faster in the drag race (26.27 seconds versus 26.73 seconds), but was slower on the top end (124 mph versus 126 mph). While 126 mph is respectable (and only two miles per hour behind Ford’s Interceptor), it was three miles per hour slower than their advertised limiter. The Impala’s stopping times were better last year, too. This year’s times were three to four seconds longer, but the MSP did estimate the 2003 will stop about 15 feet shorter.

Chevrolet’s special service Tahoes were tested in both 2WD and 4WD. The results were very similar. The times from 0-90 mph were a scant two thirds of a second different and both topped out at 98 mph.

The Bow Tie folks again brought out their “big boy’s toy,” the Hummer. As we reported two years ago, GM markets the civilian version of the military HUMVEE which is still built by General Dynamics. The official designation for the law enforcement version of the Hummer is the HMCS Tactical Vehicle – TPV. It shares the 6.5 turbodiesel V-8 with the civilians, as well as all the HD go anywhere mechanics. Still available are the various body styles and a shopping bag full of neat options, such as central tire inflation system, cruise control and a winch.

The Hummer tested this year ran a little faster than last year (85 mph), but took a little longer to stop. The projected stopping distance did improve somewhat over last year (170.1 feet versus 173.8 feet).

GM’s surprise at Michigan this year was another test of their prototype Pursuit Tahoe. (Both versions of the current Tahoe are rated as Special Service only.) They ran a similar vehicle last year and have tweaked it even more, resulting in an impressive alternative to a four-door sedan. The hot rod Tahoe accelerated much faster than the other Tahoes and the competing Explorer, and hit a top speed of 127 mph, a scant one mile slower than the Ford CVPI.

The prototype also stopped quicker and shorter than the other Tahoes. This version was not tested for competition, but will certainly be a serious contender if it ever goes into production. The last exciting police vehicle to roll from GM’s Arlington Assembly Plant (where the Tahoe is built) was the 9C-1 Caprice. Do you suppose they still have a few of those LT-1 engines stashed in the attic?

 
                                     Up on Two Wheels  

  This year’s NAFA/LEG Convention was a one motorcycle show, as representatives from Kawasaki, BMW and other bikes sold for police duty were nowhere to be found.

Harley-Davidson Motor Co.

The folks at Harley-Davidson just won’t follow the old adage, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it, as they just keep improving the motorcycles in their police lineup. The fleet consists of three main contenders: the FLHPI Road King®, the FLHTPI Electra Glide® and the FXDP Dyna Defender™ which was introduced on these pages last year. Harley-Davidson also promotes the venerable XL Sportster® 833 for a variety of special duties and it is an official member of the Harley-Davidson police fleet. They also offer a police sidecar, the TLE, which fits both the Road King and Electra Glide.

The 2003 Road King and Electra Glide share the new 2003 features of “100th Anniversary” Harley-Davidson badging and an improved rear shock valve for increased reliability. Both bikes share the 1450cc OHV Twin Cam 88® vibration isolated V twin engine. Coupled with low maintenance costs, super durability and remarkable resale value, Harley-Davidson continues as the police motorcycle of choice. They are available in white, black, and two-tone black and white, or they can be special ordered in other Harley-Davidson approved colors to match your fleet.

The Dyna Defender has proven to be very popular with law enforcement agencies which need a lighter, highly maneuverable motorcycle. This motorcycle has been upgraded for 2003 with a larger windshield, deeper saddlebags and relocated pursuit lamps – moved away from the headlight for increased visibility. The 2003 model will also include the Harley-Davidson 100th Anniversary badging.

New for Harley-Davidson, and certain to appeal to your employees, is a comprehensive line of police and sheriff merchandise. This includes clothing and collectibles which are available from any Harley-Davidson dealer.

Motorcycle Emergency Equipment

Squad-Fitters, Inc.’s newest products include a wide assortment of LED and strobe lights and a brand-new High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlight. The HID headlight delivers four to five times more light with unmatched lighting performance, greatly extended life and resistance to shock and vibration. With a service life of approximately 3500 hours, HID lighting offers eight to ten times the life of today’s conventional halogen lamps. HID lighting is designed and constructed to provide superior shock and vibration resistance because there is no filament in HID bulbs.

Among other new Squad-Fitters products, buyers will find a complete motorcycle video system; rearview mirrors which incorporate turn signals; uniform items; and helmets.

Stewart Products, Inc. has introduced its Infusion Box for Kawasaki and Harley-Davidson motorcycles.  Featuring the latest GEN-3 LED technology, it is aerodynamic and user-friendly, with features such as a gas shock to keep the lid up and a flush key lock and is designed to install a radio, compact siren/air horn with a P/A and headset device.  The Infusion Box is lightweight and can be custom configured to meet your specific needs.

Lights and Sirens

Walking into a NAFA/LEG Convention is not unlike stumbling into your Christmas tree at home – only this Christmas tree is on steroids. You are immediately stunned by the flashing lights – strobes, LEDs, halogens, and more. This year was no different as the beautiful Gaylord Palms Convention Center was ablaze in a blinding display of emergency lighting. Couple that with the multitude of siren tones going off and you’ve walked into a traffic violator’s nightmare!

Most major companies have entered the LED field pioneered by 911-EP. This is still the newest technology in emergency lighting and certainly is the future. We have now entered the era of “Generation III” LEDs. We were promised that LEDs would get brighter and they have. Each generation has doubled the intensity of the LEDs. One can only imagine where this technology is going.  How long before LEDs can be seen from outer space? Superior brightness and low power demands make LEDs the way to go. They are even more effective when combined with strobe and halogen lighting.

There are a couple of other things to know about LEDs. White and blue continue to be the most expensive choices available. This is because a company in the Republic of China holds all the patents on blue LEDs. Thus, the company, NICHIA, also controls the blue LED prices which can be twice the cost of red, green or amber. Also, keep in mind that white is not an actual color, but is a blue LED to which white phosphorus has been added.

When LEDs first appeared, many companies passed the cost differential onto their customers. With the increased popularity of LEDs, several suppliers are absorbing those markups themselves so they can sell all LED colors at the same, or near the same price. As LEDs become more popular in the civilian field (third brake lights, replacement bulbs), we can hope the color prices will eventually balance out.

The biggest news from LED pioneers, 911-EP, is that they have new parents. This past October, Armor Holdings, Inc. acquired the assets of 911-EP. Armor Holdings is one of the world’s largest and most experienced passenger vehicle armoring manufacturers. Armor Holdings also manufactures and sells a broad range of high quality law enforcement equipment including ballistic-resistant vests and tactical armor, less-lethal munitions, safety holsters, and more.        

Carson Manufacturing Company, Inc., established in 1946, has designed and manufactured hundreds of thousands of electronic sirens.

At their first NAFA outing, Carson displayed a variety of full feature sirens, including dash mounts, console mounts and units with light controls. All feature minimal heat generation and require no vent holes.

Cast Products, Inc. (CPI) has speaker mounts for nearly all police and fire applications and has introduced a neat unit called Com-Pak. This is a siren speaker designed to mount on a bumper, behind the grille, or on push bars which incorporates two warning lights.

Code 3 Inc. is the operating name of Public Safety Equipment, Inc. of St. Louis, MO. They have expanded their LED line substantially. Named LED X, Code 3 states they now produce the next generation of emergency lighting.

Their most recent offering is a new, low profile light bar, the LED X™ 2100. Standing at only 2.1" tall, the new light bar uses compact LED modules which draw an average of .5 amps per module. The LED X modules are available in red, blue and amber, with flashing or steady burn versions. Mounting kits for the 2100 are available for the CVPI, Chevy Impala, Dodge Intrepid, and other makes and models.

Code 3 also now offers LED X technology in perimeter (exterior) and surface mounted lights in dozens of shapes and sizes. Some are available in up to 20 flash patterns.

Federal Signal Corporation’s LED light bar was not available at last year’s NAFA Convention, but, this year, they hit the ground running with their take on LED technology.

Federal’s best-selling light bar ever, the venerable StreetHawk®, is now available with an array of Generation III LED assemblies located in the bottom portion of the light bar. For those of you who already own StreetHawks, Federal offers a retrofit kit which allows the installation of LED assemblies into your current light bar.

Another new item from Federal features LED technology in a visor light. The Delta Ray uses 168 LEDs arranged in three triangular configurations which provide up to three times the brightness currently available.

Two push-button switches control power and allow the user to scroll through 12 special warning patterns. There are five models available in combinations of red, amber, and blue. 

Federal has several other LED applications, including grill and deck lights, but, without a doubt, one of the most interesting and impressive products this year is SignalNet™.

The SignalNet Multiple Warning System is designed to control the functions of the total vehicle warning system through an existing laptop computer and touch screen monitor. It can be configured through a Windows® interface which gives the system great flexibility in developing, trouble-shooting and modifying electrical systems.

The touch screen employs a color-coded emulated keyboard. A single touch of a button engages the device or mode selected and the color/texture of the button changes to indicate activation. If the laptop is inoperative, the operator may control primary modes of operation through a user supplied manual control head.

Because of SignalNet’s power to perform logic functions, you have the ability to automate many functions which previously were performed manually. As an example, it can switch the vehicle from Code 3 to either Code 2 or Code 1 automatically if the vehicle is shifted into “park.” It also has the ability to monitor the vehicle’s battery voltage and has a dual mode, multivoltage load manager which allows different shedding voltages for each individual light or siren.

The SignalNet system offers complete control of load management, power distribution, lights, sirens and other vehicle peripheral functions. Additionally, real-time diagnostics can pinpoint peripheral problems instantly.

Benefits of this system include minimizing cockpit clutter; simplifying wiring and relays; increasing control and functionality; providing real-time diagnostics; providing “black box” type records of chronological system events; and providing a data link to remote diagnostics and configuration. SignalNet definitely is the future of law enforcement equipment management and should be considered by any department which currently has, or is considering, in car terminals or laptops.

Signal Vehicle Products, of Avon, NY, displayed their brand-new, three lens light bar named the “Aero Star.” The all light “Aero Star” light bars are available in 48, 52, 56 and 64 inch widths. Also new this year is their Model TD92 LED Traffic Director, available in 37 3/4" and 48" lengths. Signals’ “Star Visor” LED lights are neat warning devices which are available in a variety of LED wordings, such as POLICE, FIRE, EMT, or CHIEF, which flash alternately with warning lights.

Sound Off, Inc. introduced their new LED warning light, the Predator CHMSL (Center High-Mounted Stop Lamp) System for the CVPI. The powerful new LED warning light is designed to mount around the third brake light. This mounting location is the perfect spot for a warning light package as Federal law requires the third brake lamp to be visible in all situations, even when the trunk lid is open. The shroud eliminates the flashback glare which normally occurs when lights are mounted on the rear deck.        

The new Predator Series, also introduced by Sound Off, uses Generation III LEDs; the latest state-of-the-art technology, providing greater warning at angles and higher intensity than previous LEDs. Due to Sound Offs’ Advanced Thermal Management Technology, each LED safely produces more light than ever before. This is the major reason why Sound Off’s Predator is brighter than other Gen III lights (even those with more LEDs). The Predator CHMSL System provides 16 flash patterns; the pattern control uses a nonvolatile memory which remembers the last pattern at power-up.

Whelen Engineering Company, Inc., of Chester, CT, continues to expand their LED lineup, too. The LED Edge® LFL light bars are in models named Patriot™ and Liberty™ and share extremely short profiles. The Edge LFL Patriot starts with high impact strobes, then lets you add LED and halogen components to fit your exact requirements.

The new LFL Liberty features the next generation, all Linear-LED™ technology in a warning package which rivals strobe in impact, but provides heavy-duty, long life operation with low current draw. Both bars can be equipped with Whelen’s optional LED Traffic Advisor™. You can choose from a basic four corner “LINEAR12” LED model, then add up to a total of 12 “LINEAR8” LED directional modules on the Liberty.

Whelen has also introduced the Dash-Miser™ Plus TIR6 Series of high intensity LED dash and deck directional lighting. This is the newest generation of LED dash lighting. It has all the outstanding benefits of LED and an amazing bright light output which matches strobes in effectiveness. They feature six ultrahigh intensity LEDs per module which provide direct intensity and wide-angle visibility, as well.

Vehicle Emergency  
Equipment  

This section is devoted to all the other law enforcement vehicle accessories profiled at the NAFA/LEG Conference. Most equipment is available for any law enforcement vehicle a department chooses. Some equipment, such as light bars and spotlights, can be rotated among different makes with only minor mounting bracket changes. Other items, such as prisoner containment systems and push bars, are specifically designed for each application. This year, a new trend emerged – companies offering aftermarket equipment for only one of the available police cars – The Crown Vic Interceptor. It is estimated that Ford controls from 65 to 85 percent of the police car marketplace; it is only natural that vendors would concentrate on Ford.

Ford Finishing Touches

Adamson Industries Corporation, of Lawrence, MA, is a multifaceted company which is a distributor for most of the popular brands of emergency equipment; they also have their own exclusive line of equipment and install equipment as well. Adamson has introduced several Crown Vic only products.

Adamson’s Intimidator grille is a replacement grille for 1998 to 2003 Interceptors which has built-in emergency lighting mounts. It replaces original equipment grilles and adds needed warning power in just minutes. Similar in cost to a push bumper, it does not damage your vehicle’s OE bumper. The grille does not block warning lights (as behind the grille mounts do) and does not reduce airflow to radiator or air-conditioning condensers.

The Intimidator installation is a snap because it requires no holes, special hardware or exotic tools. The light mounts will accept a wide variety of 3" x 7" LED, strobe and halogen lights.

Adamson also sells their own line of Crown Vic full wheel covers. These are available in 15" and 16" sizes, fitting Crown Vics from 1992 to the present. Priced reasonably, these hubcaps are ideal for upgrading cruisers (from dog dish to full-size) or replacing lost originals.

The 2003 Interceptor has an all new wheel design which negates full wheel covers. Adamson has come up with a solution for that, too. They offer an attractive trim ring which compliments the 2003 center cap.

Adamson also sells other equipment for the Crown Vics, such as trunk organizers and inexpensive rear door window bars which prevent prisoners from kicking their way out. This is in addition to their full line of consoles, lighting and more.

Joe Coon Enterprise, Inc., of Kissimmee, FL, has come up with a solution to a problem which has plagued Crown Vic owners for sometime – torn off rear bumper covers. The Ford Crown Victoria and Police Interceptor rear bumper covers can rip off when the rear end bottoms out while turning around in medians, going through ditches or down secondary roads. CVPIs from the year 2000 to present are approximately two inches lower at the center of the rear bumper cover than previous models. If you follow a patrol car at high speed which has a loose or ripped bumper cover, you will see the cover fluttering. What the driver feels is similar to a crosswind. Coon has developed a rear skid plate to cure this situation.

Their skid plate fills the space between the rear of the trunk floor and the bottom leading edge of the rear bumper cover. This stops the bumper cover from acting as a scoop and getting hung up on dirt, gravel and grass. This normally would rip the cover off when the rear of the car bottoms out. The cost of the skid plate is under a hundred bucks per kit, including shipping and handling. All mounting hardware is included. This cost is well below the cost of replacing and painting the bumper cover, approximately $500.00. You can eliminate time spent filling out damage reports, pick up and delivery to the body shop, downtime in the body shop and lots of paperwork.

The skid plate is made of Ultra High Molecular Weight (UHMW) polymer plastic which is used on rock chutes at concrete plants and on bottoms of airboats. There are no metal parts which can cause sparks and installation takes about 30 minutes.

Philpott Ford, of Nederland, TX, has developed another skid plate for the CVPI. This is a metal plate which covers critical areas of the front end, such as the oil pan. This skid plate utilizes factory mounts which are already in place. Installation is quick and uses basic tools. This skid plate was designed to protect your investment in real-world situations.

Roadmaster Coil Pro, of Charlotte, NC, has developed a product for the CVPI to correct a law enforcement problem which has been around for decades. Cruisers typically carry 200 to 500 pounds of equipment in the trunk and they usually sag in the rear. This can result in poor handling and increased bottoming out. The Roadmaster Coil Pro system consists of four sets of variable rated torsion spring assemblies. They are installed (two sets per coil spring) diagonally opposite each other. The installation is simple, only requiring 20 minutes, with no drilling or welding. Once installed, the Coil Pro’s effect will be felt immediately. Coil Pro reduces the dangerous body roll and sway of the vehicle at all speeds, thus enhancing performance and safety. This is achieved without compromising the ride quality, yet still providing 35% additional strength and support to the rear coil springs.

The results of using this product include enhanced handling, additional load capacity and better overall performance.

The Other Players

The final portion of our annual report will focus on the balance of the NAFA/LEG vehicle equipment vendors and present a brief sample of their new wares.

BG Products, located in Wichita, KS, is a manufacturer of chemical additives, lubricants, greases, cleaners and service equipment to clean fuel injectors and flush transmissions, cooling systems, engine oil and power steering systems and brake systems.

Modern braking systems have a low tolerance for contaminated, oxidized brake fluid. After only a few thousand miles, the brake fluid can begin to affect the operation of the braking system. The BG PF9 Brake Service System is designed to quickly, easily, and effectively perform the OEM recommended method of pressure flushing and bleeding braking systems and can empty the master cylinder, pressure flush with new fluid, and vacuum away old fluid from the bleeder valves in a matter of minutes.

Brooking Industries, Inc. is located in Sunrise, FL, and they demonstrated their new Universal SUV K-9 Kit. This unit can be assembled and installed in about one hour. Sliding/locking doors on opposite sides enable entrance/exit from either the back of the vehicle or from one of the rear passenger doors, depending on which side it is mounted. The installation is simple (four brackets screw into the floor) and it is just as easy to pull out fully assembled and transferred to another SUV. It comes with a DC powered fan, universal hose connection for easy cleanup, and a no slip rubber mat.

CruiseCam™ is a complete passenger seat modular video system which rides outside air bag zones, out of harm’s way. Unlike overhead or windshield mounted systems, CruiseCam is built into the passenger seat. It doesn’t occupy valuable trunk space and it doesn’t obstruct the officer’s view. The three in one camera offers front facing wide-angle and instant zoom, plus delivers an unobstructed pillar to pillar view which is unaffected by glare, rain or snow on the windshield. With rear facing, wide-angle infrared capabilities, officers can have surveillance on rear seat occupants, day or night.

The remote wireless UHF microphone and diversity antennas provide clear audio with a range of up to 500 feet. Plus, officers have the advantage of covert microphone for rear seat and in compartment recording. CruiseCam works manually or automatically. It can be switched on by microphone, light bar or siren. The ergonomically designed control screen is fully adjustable for one-handed operation. CruiseCam Integrated Technologies is located in Birmingham, MI.

Cruisers, Inc. can always be depended upon to have a wide array of new police car accessories which make your officers’ jobs safer and more efficient. Located in Brighton, MI, Cruisers proudly states they are a “one-stop solution for all of your vehicle’s interior needs.” They have recently developed a new product which allows a municipality to utilize their prisoner containment module with the popular Setina partition. This new Lower Extension Panel allows the two different manufacturers’ products to perform well together and provide the best possible fit and finish. Utilizing this product will provide a sealed environment between the foot well section and the lower portion of the partition. There are no exposed cavities in which a prisoner can hide or discard contraband and/or weapons. Additionally, you will be able to wash the backseat area due to the floor drains in the foot well portion. This panel was designed for ease of installation as well. “If the customer decides they want to keep their existing metal partition, but desires our seat and foot well, then this is the perfect solution to accomplish their objective,” states Keith Wallaker, President of Cruisers.

D & R Electronics Co., Ltd. is a manufacturer of emergency vehicle consoles, computer mounts, light and siren control systems, headlight and taillight flashers, and more. Their newest products include a docking station for Panasonic CF27/28 computers which can swivel 80 degrees left to right and tilt to accommodate both driver and passenger.

Their Model AB2220 is an aerodynamically advanced Traffic Control System ideally suited for multipurpose applications. The AB2220 is moistureproofed in the manufacturing process to withstand all weather use. The AB2220’s light weight allows for an easy remote raise/lower operation and the long life reflector lamps provide a maximum visibility of three miles in night or day operation.

Decatur Electronics, Inc. is a leading manufacturer of traffic safety equipment including radar systems, in car video systems and speed monitoring trailers. They have recently announced the product launch of the Gemini Hi-8 In-Car Video Solution Two-Piece Console for all vehicles. In addition to utilizing a Sony Hi-8 recorder, the Gemini Two-Piece Console is one of the first in car video systems to offer a solution which fits almost any vehicle (including SUVs). The entire Gemini Two-Piece Console is mounted inside the vehicle’s interior using high quality, durable PanaVise mounting brackets.

Gamber-Johnson recently developed a docking station (Item No. NP-CF28) for the Panasonic Toughbook 28, designed to securely mount the computer into fleet vehicles. The docking station has an internal power supply designed specifically for the Toughbook 28 computer and offers full port replication. Some of the standard features include a cam slide mechanism for easy docking engagement; a floating docking connector which assures proper docking alignment; and front retainer brackets for added restraint and safety. A key lock is included on the docking station for extra security. The docking station has a black powder coat finish and is made of aluminum and heavy gauge steel.

Gamber-Johnson has also introduced their new “NotePad” universal computer mount. The NotePad IV universal computer mount is a key component for any mobile computing deployment.

Go Rhino! Products, Inc.’s 25 years of experience in building quality accessories has resulted in a new law enforcement product line.

Each part is custom designed for each application. No drilling is required so installation is easy (less than thirty minutes).  Made of heavy-duty steel, Go Rhino! push bumpers offer superior front end protection and are now available for the 2003 Ford Crown Victoria, Dodge Intrepid, Ford Expedition, and Chevy Tahoe, as well as older models.

Havis-Shields Equipment Corporation, of Warminster, PA, builds consoles and computer mounts, prisoner and K-9 transport systems, motorcycle lighting systems and emergency scene lighting. Havis-Shields has added two new space saving, under dash Angled Series Consoles to their Consolidator line of consoles and computer mounts. They are a 60 degree angled console (C-AS-1060) with 10" of equipment mounting space, and a 25 degree angled console (C-AS-1325) with 13" of equipment mounting space.

Angled Series Consoles are ergonomically designed so equipment is easier to reach and see than traditional long consoles. They can be transferred to other vehicles easily and are stylish and strong – constructed of 14-gauge steel. They accept all Consolidator internally mounted options and can be used with Trak-Mount to mount external options such as armrests and cup holders. They also offer convenient options for mounting laptops.

Havis-Shields’ new Angled Series Consoles are available for the CVPI, Impala, Intrepid, small and large SUVs and pickups.

Jon/Beau, Inc. has been manufacturing communications consoles for police vehicles for over 18 years. Their current “ABC” consoles and Mark II mounting systems are all dual air bag safe. Being modular in design, they centralize all equipment and accommodate all manufacturers’ models of radios, sirens, scanners, switchboxes and mobile data terminals.

Their consoles are quickly installed and easily transferred. Drill-free mounting is provided for ABC consoles (using existing bucket seat bolts), but is optional with the Mark II units.

Jotto Desk®, of Rogers, AR, has one of the neatest cop car consoles on the market. Named the “Contour Console,” you would swear they are original equipment. The consoles fill the void between the dashboard and floor and are available for a variety of vehicles and all the police sedans and SUVs. They are easy to install, space saving and air bag safe. There is no viewing strain due to the innovative design and they cause no wear on seats or your officers’ trousers.

The Console Side Mount from Jotto Desk will mount either standard or ruggedized notebook computers or two-piece computing systems like the Data911, Microslate, Motorola 520, Litton, Xplore, Kontron and others. Its distinctive features optimize vehicle space and improve access to controls. It provides quick glance over viewing, keeping the officer’s attention focused forward.

Kustom Signals, Inc. has just introduced the Directional Golden Eagle® (DGE) radar with Digital Signal Processing, the latest addition to Kustom’s Eagle Series.  This new directional radar features a new antenna design which will provide the operator with longer shooting ranges, faster target acquisition and more precise target identification than any other Eagle Series radar.

With directional capabilities, the DGE eliminates moving/same direction discrimination problems and is able to determine if vehicles in the “Moving/Same Direction” mode are closing in or moving away from the radar without input from the operator. With same direction fastest capability, the DGE can display a strongest, slower target and a fastest, weaker target simultaneously.

In “Stationary Operation,” the Directional Golden Eagle allows the operator to select a specific direction of traffic or all directions.  In “Approaching Only” mode (APR), the DGE can measure approaching targets while automatically ignoring vehicles which are receding away from the patrol car – even if the target receding is closer than an approaching target.

In addition to “Stopwatch” and “Fastest Vehicle” modes, the Directional Golden Eagle also features a set up options menu, allowing the operator to choose from four different user selectable types of output to video systems; toggle fastest mode on/off; and to select from mph or kph.

L&E Mobile Computers & Mounts, Inc. provides integrated turnkey hardware solutions for mounting computers and communication systems into vehicles and other rugged environments for various industries. L&E’s new docking systems accommodate Panasonic’s new PDRC CF-34N Mark III Computer configurations. L&E Mobile Computers & Mounts announced its LE-MIII-DOCK and its LE-PAN-MIII-D, two new docking systems designed for, and approved by, Panasonic to accompany the newly reconfigured CF-M34N and the CF-34N Mark III Panasonic Toughbook PDRC computers. The LE-MIII-DOCK includes an L&E board and accommodates four COM ports (two dedicated and two router) and four USB ports and all other PDRC connections.

L&E also manufactures two new docking systems for Itronix® Go Book™ and Go Book MAX™ rugged computers. The two new systems were designed for, and approved by, Itronix to accompany the Go Book and Go Book MAX rugged computers. Each unit is followed up with a Universal Break Out Box for serial port conversion.

Lund Industries, Inc.’s new In-Dash mounting system for Interceptors allows MW-520, Xplore GII and Panasonic PDRC displays to be mounted in place of the factory radio which is relocated under the dash. The CV-CSM fits in the factory radio slot and features screen tilt, fixed rotations up to ten degrees, installs with no holes or braces in the vehicle, and can be used with or without a console.

Performance Friction Corp., of Clover, SC, manufactures high performance carbon metallic brake pads and rotors specifically for emergency fleet vehicles.

PFC engineers its rotors and pads to meet or exceed OE and FMVSS 105 and 135 safety standards. All PFC pads utilize a patented multilayer technology which allows for faster stops and longer pad and rotor life, while eliminating a soft or mushy feeling pedal.

PFC performance pads suitable for high-speed, pursuit driving are available for the Ford Crown Victoria, Ford Police Interceptor, Chevrolet Impala, AM General Hummer, Chevrolet Camaro and Dodge Intrepid. PFC also makes a premium rotor specifically for the Ford Police Interceptor.

Pro-Gard Industries is a 24 year veteran manufacturer of police vehicle safety equipment and officer safety gear.

Pro-Gard showcased several of the new products they manufacture. Among the many new introductions displayed on exhibited police cruisers were:

• P1500 Pro-Cell Max Single Prisoner Transport System (no holes drilled installation);

• V6010 Window Armor for the Ford Crown Victoria (with no holes drilled technology);

• U103F Skid Plate for the 2003 Ford Crown Victoria (no holes drilled installation);

• E1003F Push Bumper for the 2003 Crown Victoria (no trim cut, no holes drilled installation);

• D100F Trunk Lid Organizer for the 1992 to 2003 CVPI; and

• D200 Sliding Trunk Equipment Tray for the 1998 to 2003 CVPI.

Setina Manufacturing Co., Inc. is the manufacturer of Setina “Bodyguard” Police Vehicle Partitions, push bumpers and weapon mounts. They unveiled their all new double weapon mount. The space saver mounting system is recessed between the front seats away from occupants and air bags.

Setina has also upgraded their popular “Bodyguard” push bumpers with a new (standard) wider cross support system. The lightweight, high strength aluminum design meets automakers’ recommendations for front end weight limitations.

Setina also now offers a new skid plate for the Impala 9C1 and 9C3. The skid plate can protect the expensive FWD components.

The Sirchie Vehicle Division, of Medford, NJ, exhibited their line of Special Purpose Police Vehicles.

What’s new in this year’s lineup is Sirchie’s Underwater Rescue Trailer. This unit provides on-site climate controlled operations facilities with features specifically designed for the underwater rescue team. The unit is equipped with many of the same technologies found in a modern command vehicle, but with the addition of many features which accommodate the special needs of a dive team.

Also new and receiving a lot of attention (since last year’s terrorist attacks) is Sirchie’s new model SUV2000 Portable Surveillance Camera system for SUVs, minivans and camper top pickup trucks. The SUV2000 can be used in numerous ways to capture surveillance video. The standard package is provided with a hardwired monitor/recording case which is located in the driving area. An operator can sit in the vehicle and control the rear mounted camera system or the unit can be aimed at a surveillance site, the monitor/recording case closed, and the vehicle may be left for unmanned surveillance.

Stewart Products, Inc. has a few new products for your cruiser, too.  The EM-700 Space Saver Console, which will mount in most vehicles, features no holes drilled floor mounting; an articulating computer mount is optional.  The console has one removable access door on each side and includes a microphone clip and bracket.

Their AS Series of mounts are designed to handle heavy weight loads and are equipped with gas shocks (depending on your weight requirement).  Locking handles on the side help to eliminate vibration!  The swing out arms are solidly constructed and multiple adjustments keep the computer from interfering with the steering wheel or air bag.

Tornado Air Management Systems has developed a nonmoving stainless steel accessory designed to swirl incoming air to better atomize fuel, resulting in more power and mileage. The Tornado is available for a wide range of vehicles, including the CVPI, the Dodge Intrepid and many SUVs and pickups. It promises more power and better mileage with a simple installation.

According to the manufacturer, an independent test of the Tornado installed on a 1999 CVPI increased the mileage from 19 mpg to 21 mph, or an 11% change. The Tornado is available at a number of auto parts stores nationwide and is sold with a lifetime warranty and a thirty day promise of your money back.

Troy Products introduced a new universal laptop mount to the law enforcement industry. The CM-DSL design meets a variety of creature comfort requirements with a very simple, but unique, design.  This is the only mount on the market with no finger clamps. You have access to all ports. A sleeve is attached to the laptop bottom and this sleeve slips in and out of the mount in seconds. When in use, it’s key locked in place. By twisting a single knob, you can adjust the height, reach, swivel and pivot. When not in use, it can be stored low, out of the air bag zone. Any laptop or keyboard can be mounted to this design.

Troy also offers new mounting solutions for the Motorola 520 Workstation.  The 1000 NIT screen is supported by a perforated aluminum screen mount (an excellent heat sink) which is designed to fold forward (in the event of air bag deployment) and stop at a designated point to prevent the screen from making contact with the keyboard.  The keyboard platform tilts and the entire mount swivels. The CPU can be stored either vertically or horizontally – your choice. The mount is supported by a ruggedly built pole which bolts directly to a console floor plate. Another version mounts directly to a console to save on installation space.

Visual Image Systems is located in Louisville, KY. Their new products include the new 911 EVG Series, a conformable, reflective prismatic film for public safety vehicles. The new 911 Emergency Vehicle Graphics vinyl is specifically engineered for the rugged requirements of police car graphics and striping. With long distance reflectivity, vivid colors and flexibility for ease of application, the 911 Series creates graphics which increase the visual presence of emergency and fleet vehicles at night and during inclement weather. The reflectivity offered through its microprismatic structure creates greater long distance visibility and allows drivers more time to react to emergency vehicles on call.

The unique construction of the 911 Series makes it flexible enough for application over vehicle curves and durable enough to resist the scratches, bumps, and multiple power washings typical for emergency and fleet vehicles.

There We Have It

This concludes our annual report on what’s new and exciting in the world of law enforcement vehicles and accessories. Good shopping!

The author welcomes your comments.  He can be reached at:  
          James G. Post  
          15677 Hwy. 62 W.  
         Eureka Springs, AR 72632