VW Crafter Riot Van Comes With Police-Spec Updates – And A Prison Cell

Volkswagen’s targeting the UK police with the new Police Support Unit (PSU). Based on the long wheelbase, Trendline trim level version of the Crafter, it features a lot of upgrades over the regular, £30,009 ($38,739/€34,747) van.

The side body panels have been modified to add windows and the front windscreen is now resistant to impact, so there’s no need for a metal guard screen. The riot van can sit seven inside, whereas the rear end has a prison cell. The unique storage system allows officers to store their shields, helmets and other equipment.

Power comes from a 2.0-liter diesel engine rated at 177 PS (175 hp / 130 kW). In the panel van, the TDI unit is used in the FWD, RWD and AWD configurations and can be coupled to a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic transmission.

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Converted by Coleman Milne Specialist Vehicles, this Crafter will be shown to the public at the Commercial Vehicle Show at NEC Birmingham between April 30 and May 2. From there, it will take its place on the company’s demo fleet for the country’s police forces to trial and loan.

“We’re delighted to reveal our latest blue light conversion – a riot van based on the long wheelbase Volkswagen Crafter – after months of hard work by our dedicated team, alongside our Accredited Blue Light Conversion Partner, Coleman Milne”, said the VW Group Fleet Services Technical Sales Manager, Steven Cowell. “Following its much anticipated debut at the CV Show 2019, the PSU will be put into service across the country supporting police forces in their vital roles.”