The Northern Territory (NT) of Australia is transitioning to symmetrical all-wheel drive vehicles for its new police force. The Northern Territory Police, Fire and Emergency Services (NTPFES) have received 13 new Subaru WRXs specifically for their Traffic Police Unit. The initial Subaru patrol unit was launched in Darwin, with plans to distribute the remaining vehicles throughout the territory in the coming weeks.
“I am committed to implementing my common-sense plan to enhance community safety by providing the Police with the resources and support necessary to perform their duties effectively,” stated Eva Lawler, Chief Minister of the Northern Territory, in a social media update.
These vehicles are not just standard models. Each patrol car is equipped with emergency lights, a dual-battery system, a rifle mount with an electronic release, automatic license plate recognition software, advanced speed radar, and a lightbar featuring a messaging board. The police-spec WRXs can reach speeds of up to 155 mph, whereas the civilian version achieves a top speed of 134 mph, according to Car and Driver. Officials indicated that each police WRX costs the Australian equivalent of about $45,000 USD ($70,000 AUD), while a standard WRX RS starts at approximately $38,000 USD ($58,534 AUD).
“This latest addition to the police fleet has been designed by the officers themselves, showcasing the collaboration between Police and the Lawler Labor Government to combat crime,” remarked Brent Potter, Minister for Police, in a press release. “These vehicles are equipped with everything an officer could need to carry out their duties effectively and safely.”
Covering more than half a million square miles, the NT is the third-largest federal division in Australia. Despite the fleet enhancement, the vast area remains sparsely populated, with more than half of the territory’s residents living in Darwin.
Further details regarding the WRX trim or any modifications to the engine or other technology were not disclosed. The new WRXs will succeed the Kia Stingers and Volkswagen Passats, which are being phased out from the high-performance fleet. Once the Subarus are added, the police unit will consist of 29 vehicles overall. The Stingers were brought in to replace the outgoing Holden Commodore SS, prompting curiosity about the vehicles that complete the rest of the police fleet. Might they include practical options like the Hyundai i30 N? Perhaps.
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