Alfa Romeo continues its long-lasting collaboration with the Carabinieri, as the Tonale wears a police uniform for the first time. The Italian brand announced it will deliver a total of 400 mobile radio units of the electrified compact SUV to the local police between July 2023 and late 2024.
The first example of the Alfa Romeo Tonale police car was delivered to the headquarters of the General Command of the Carabinieri in Rome. The model is painted in the traditional deep blue shade with red and white graphics. The Tonale police car features partial armor, while a two-tone electronic siren and flashing blue LED lights have been retrofitted on the roof.
Likewise, the interior has been redesigned in order to better fit its new role. Alfa Romeo revised the trim, and added new storage solutions for police equipment (bulletproof vests, high-visibility torches, long firearms), and a single cell at the back for the secure transport of prisoners.
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Under the bonnet lies the turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine that produces 158 hp (118 kW / 160 PS), with electrical assistance from a 48V mild-hybrid unit including a 20 hp (15 kW / 20 PS) electric motor. Power is transmitted to the front axle via a 7-speed TCT automatic gearbox.
According to Alfa Romeo, this is the first time a vehicle from the compact SUV segment joins the Carabinieri fleet, bringing “greater versatility in service performance” alongside a “significant increase in the level of comfort for officers” which can be useful in long shifts.
The Alfa Romeo Tonale will support the armored Giulia which has earned the nickname of “Gazelle” among the police force, as well as the special units of the Giulia Quadrifoglio. The Carabinieri is described as “the largest locally based police force in Europe”.
