Ford Mustang enlists for police duty

Monday, 4 May 2020

Federal homologation documents uncovered by motoring.com.au have indicated Ford is working with the Australian police to create a hi-po Mustang Interceptor for law enforcement duties.

Ford is tapping tuner Herrod Performance to create the Interceptor, which is based on the 339kW/556Nm MY20 Mustang GT. Herrod is adding a modified radiator and extra cooling for the ten-speed automatic transmission and differential in order to overcome previous overheating issues found when the 2016 Mustang GT was evaluated for duty (pictured).

Herrod will also drop the ride height by around 25mm to help high-speed manoeuvrability while kerb weight will bump up to 1750kg, thanks to all the extra police-specific gear on board.

This isn't the first time the Mustang has been evaluated for police duty. The 2016 model was also looked at but didn't make the cut at the time.

Motoring.com.au says at least one version will be a two-seater, with the rear seats removed to slot in something called 'police pack part number FR3V-7842844-A', whatever that is.

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It's not clear which Aussie states will consider the police-spec Mustang. Wonder if New Zealand will follow suit...

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The Mustangs won't be replacing any Commodores, BMWs or Kia Stingers, instead coming as additional support for high-speed chases. That's why the rear seats can be removed, as crims will be transported in other vehicles.

It's unknown when the Mustang Interceptor will be presented to the various state police forces, or which states will show an interest. Right now, those considering breaking the law can expect to be met by Chrysler 300 SRTs, BMW 530ds, Kia Stinger GTs and even an M3 or two.

It's not quite as mental as what the cops in Dubai get to play with but the Aussies will be able to keep up with most other machinery on the road.

Other interesting cars to do shifts with the Australian police include a Lexus RC-F, a Honda Civic Type R and an Audi RS 4.

Ever since the demise of local manufacturing from Ford and Holden (and the closure of the latter), police in Oz have been hunting international replacements for their Commodore and Falcon-based fleets. The Mustang might be an American car but the return of V8 power and rear-drive to the police forces will surely please fans.