September 18, 2006

Lansing - The Michigan State Police (MSP) conducted its annual Police Vehicle Evaluation this past weekend to test the speed, acceleration, braking and high-speed handling of the newest vehicles designed for use by law enforcement officers.  Several hundred police officers and government fleet managers from across the United States and Canada attended the testing, which law enforcement agencies and vehicle manufacturers rely on when determining which police vehicles to purchase. 

In addition to the 16 patrol cars and sport utility vehicles (SUV) that were tested, this year’s evaluation also included three police motorcycles from various manufacturers.  This is the first time motorcycles were included in the evaluation.

“The Michigan State Police is proud of the reputation we have when it comes to evaluating police vehicles and precision driving,” stated Colonel Peter C. Munoz, Director of the MSP.  “Our annual Police Vehicle Evaluation helps other law enforcement agencies determine the strengths and weaknesses of police vehicles, special service vehicles and now motorcycles to ensure they are purchasing the safest and most efficient model for their needs.”

The vehicles and motorcycles were tested at three tracks; the Daimler Chrysler Proving Grounds in Chelsea, the Grattan Raceway in Belding and the MSP Precision Drive Track in Lansing.

The MSP has partnered with the National Law Enforcement and Corrections Technology Center since 1981 to conduct these evaluations.  The results of this weekend’s tests will be released in October.