Even if you don’t live in New York City, you probably know what their police cars look like. Thanks to countless movies and television shows, NYPD cars are some of the most recognizable in the world.
However, change is in store as a controversial redesign was shown during the 2023 State of the NYPD event earlier this week. Towards the end of the presentation, the force showed a video featuring classic patrol cars and motorcycles. It then displayed a Ford Police Interceptor Utility in an all-new livery.
As you can see, the classic design has largely been jettisoned as the crossover sports green and blue stripes as well as stars on the front fender. The design recalls the NYPD flag, but it looks to be inspired by a country you’d struggle to find on a map.
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That being said, there’s prominent NYPD badging and a familiar shield on the sides. The crossover also sports a rear-mounted display that shows “NYPD” through the back window.
The design has received mixed reactions, but New York City Police Commissioner Keechant Sewell said “Even icons are due for an update and change every now and then.” She went on to say the department is “exploring potential design changes as we speak,” implying the updates aren’t set in stone at this point.
Besides a new livery, Sewell said we can expect a 360° camera system to improve officer safety. She also said vehicles would come equipped with a QR code that people could easily scan with their smartphones. Inside, there’s a “revamped interior for a more efficient and comfortable work environment.”
The New York Post said the updates are expected to begin rolling out early next year as the NYPD gradually replaces some of its older vehicles.
