The Michigan State Police Vehicle Test Team presents the results of the 2010 model year Police Vehicle Evaluation, which involved the testing of eight vehicles and five motorcycles.
The eight vehicles tested were the Ford Police Interceptor (3.27:1), Ford Police Interceptor (3.56:1), Chevrolet Impala 9C1, Chevrolet Impala 9C1 E85, Chevrolet Tahoe PPV 2WD, Chevrolet Tahoe PPV 2WD E85. Dodge Charger 3.5L, and Dodge Charger 5.7L. The motorcycles tested were the Harley-Davidson Electra Glide FLHTP, the Harley-Davidson Road King FLHP, the BMW Motorrad USA R1200RTP, the Buell Ulysses, and BMW G650 GS-P. The report describes the test equipment used during the acceleration, top speed, braking, and vehicle dynamics portions of the evaluation program. Detailed specifications for each tested vehicle are provided, along with photographs. The vehicle dynamics testing determined each vehicle's high-speed pursuit or emergency handling characteristics and performance compared with other vehicles in the test group. The testing methodology and weather on the test day are described. The acceleration and top speed testing determined the ability of each vehicle to accelerate from a standing start to 60 mph, 80 mph, and 100 mph, as well as the distance to reach 110 mph and 120 mph. The brake testing determined the deceleration rate attained by each vehicle on 12 60-0 mph impending skid (threshold) stops. Each vehicle was scored on the average deceleration rate it attained. The brake test methodology is described. Ergonomics and communications testing rated each vehicle's ability to provide a suitable environment for the patrol officer in the performance of his/her assigned tasks, as well as each vehicle's capacity to accommodate the required communications and emergency warning equipment, along with the relative difficulty of installing such equipment in each vehicle. Fuel economy was also determined for each vehicle. Extensive data tables and photos