Ford is taking steps to improve the safety of detainees being transported in police vehicles. In a recent patent application filed with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) on November 16, initially submitted in 2022, Ford detailed a new airbag system specifically designed for the rear seats of police cars. These airbags would be integrated into the dividing bulkhead that separates the front and rear sections of the vehicle. This system is akin to how traditional airbags unfold from the steering wheel and dashboard in standard cars.
The design of police cars typically includes partitions that separate law enforcement officers in the front from detainees in the back. Ford’s innovation would only necessitate additional components for vehicles specifically designated for police use.
Current passenger vehicles already feature airbags for rear-seat passengers, but these are typically side-deploying. Ford’s innovation includes the consideration of rooftop airbags, which could descend in front of or encircle rear passengers. However, Ford has not confirmed if these ideas will be developed into production models.
Although it remains uncertain if Ford will produce the police car airbag system, this initiative aligns with the company’s significant presence in the law enforcement vehicle market. The Ford Crown Victoria previously dominated this sector, and Ford continues to hold substantial market share with the Explorer-based Police Interceptor Utility.
Additionally, Ford’s police vehicle lineup includes a version of the F-150. In 2021, this model was recognized as the fastest police vehicle in a Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department test, achieving 0-60 mph in 5.9 seconds and completing a quarter-mile in 14.44 seconds at 98.19 mph. Ford also supplies Mustang Mach-E vehicles to the New York Police Department, further demonstrating the company’s commitment to providing diverse and efficient options for law enforcement agencies.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Ford police car safety
What is Ford’s new initiative for police vehicles?
Ford has filed a patent for an airbag system designed for the rear seats of police cars. This system aims to improve the safety of detainees during transportation. The airbags would deploy from the bulkhead separating the front and rear sections of the vehicle.
How does Ford’s proposed police car airbag system differ from existing airbags?
Unlike conventional rear-seat airbags that deploy from the sides, Ford’s proposed system would have airbags deploying from the front, similar to front airbags in standard vehicles. This is specifically designed for the structure of police cars.
Has Ford implemented any other innovative safety features in their police vehicles?
Yes, Ford has also filed patents for roof-mounted airbags that could protect rear-seat occupants by deploying from above. However, there is no confirmation yet on whether these will be included in production models.
What is the significance of Ford’s involvement in the law enforcement vehicle market?
Ford has a long history in the law enforcement vehicle market, once dominating it with the Ford Crown Victoria. They continue to maintain a significant presence with vehicles like the Explorer-based Police Interceptor Utility and a police version of the F-150, known for its speed and efficiency.
More about Ford police car safety
- Ford’s Police Vehicle Innovations
- USPTO Ford Airbag Patent Filing
- Ford Police Interceptor Utility
- Ford F-150 Police Vehicle Performance
- Ford Mustang Mach-E NYPD Usage
5 comments
good to see companies thinking about everyone’s safety, even detainees. Shouldn’t they have thought of this earlier though?
The idea of airbags in the back seat, especially in cop cars, is pretty neat. But, what’s the cost gonna be like for taxpayers?
Interesting read! but, i’m curious about how these airbags will deploy differently from standard ones. More details would be great.
wow, ford’s really stepping up their game with these new safety features, kinda makes you wonder why it took so long for such innovations?
Ford’s always been a leader in the police car market, no surprise there. But airbags in the rear? That’s something new. Wonder how this will play out in real-world scenarios.