When you see flashing lights in your rearview mirror, it could be a sleek sedan, a rugged SUV, or even a full-sized pickup truck. Modern law enforcement relies on a variety of vehicle types, each selected and outfitted for specific duties. Whether your department patrols urban streets, rural roads, or specialized emergency scenes, the right vehicle, and the right police vehicle upfitting, makes all the difference.
In this guide, Wichita-based TCS Upfitting will cover the most common types of police vehicles, what makes them unique, and the equipment that turns standard fleet models into at-the-ready units.
Police Sedans (Patrol & Pursuit)
Sedans have long been a staple in American police fleets. Vehicles like the Dodge Charger Pursuit and the discontinued Ford Police Interceptor Sedan were designed for high-speed pursuits and daily patrols in cities and on highways.
Why Departments Choose Sedans
- Lower center of gravity improves handling at high speeds
- More aerodynamic for fuel efficiency and stealth
- Ideal for urban traffic navigation and highway patrol
Key Upfitting Features
Exterior & Protection:
- Push Bumpers: Reinforced guards used for PIT maneuvers and pushing disabled vehicles.
- Ballistic Door Panels: Optional armor inserts provide NIJ Level III+ protection for the driver and front passenger doors.
- Slick-top Configurations: Low-profile visor lights replace roof-mounted bars for stealthier enforcement and reduced drag.
Interior & Cockpit:
- Custom Equipment Consoles: Organize radios, siren controls, and electronics in an ergonomic setup for officers wearing duty belts.
- Secure Park Modules: Allow the vehicle to idle while preventing unauthorized gear shifts.
- Weapon Mounts: Lockable racks typically store a shotgun and patrol rifle within easy reach.
Prisoner Transport:
- Partitions: Heavy-duty polycarbonate or steel mesh barriers separate front and rear areas, often including sliding windows for officer communication.
Sedans remain a top choice for departments focused on speed, responsiveness, and high-visibility patrol.
Police SUVs (Interceptors & K-9 Units)
SUVs have quickly become the most popular police vehicle type across the U.S., offering a mix of size, power, and adaptability. Models like the Ford Police Interceptor Utility and Chevy Tahoe PPV are seen in every type of policing, from municipal patrols to K-9 operations and administrative use.
Why Departments Choose SUVs
- Spacious interiors for multiple officers or gear
- Increased visibility and ride height
- Room for K-9 transport and specialized tech
Key Upfitting Features
Cargo Management:
- Rear Storage Vaults: Drawer systems and lockable boxes store medical kits, tools, and evidence bags.
- Tech Lockboxes: Secure and climate-controlled compartments protect electronics and sensitive materials.
K-9 Equipment:
- Kennel Inserts: Aluminum enclosures replace the rear seats and often include systems that monitor and regulate temperature.
- Heat Alarms: Trigger sirens, open windows, or send alerts if cabin temperatures exceed safe limits for canine partners.
Tech & Power:
- Auxiliary Power Units: Handle the load of LIDAR, dash cams, ALPR systems, and more without draining the main battery.
- Perimeter Alert Sensors: Detect motion around the parked vehicle, notifying officers of nearby threats.
SUVs are ideal for departments that value cargo capacity, officer comfort, and equipment versatility, especially when operating in mixed terrain.
Police Trucks (Special Service & Utility)
Pickup trucks are no longer just for utility crews—they’ve become critical assets for rural law enforcement, SWAT teams, and special operations. The Ram 1500 SSV, Ford F-150 Police Responder, and Chevy Silverado PPV are common truck platforms for law enforcement agencies in more rugged or remote environments.
Why Departments Choose Trucks
- High towing and payload capacity
- Off-road readiness for rural and wildland patrol
- Adaptability for tactical or rescue gear
Key Upfitting Features
Utility Upgrades:
- Truck Caps: Toppers with side access and built-in lighting convert the bed into a mobile workspace.
- Bed Slides: Pull-out trays enable quick access to gear like ballistic shields or med kits.
Rural & Tactical Gear:
- Skid Plates: Reinforced protection for the undercarriage during off-road pursuits.
- Water/Fuel Storage: For remote deployments and extended shifts.
Power & Communication:
- Power Inverters: Provide AC power for charging laptops, UAV batteries, or field equipment.
- Mobile Command Stations: Larger cabs are ideal for mounting laptops, tablets, and radios.
Lighting:
- Work Lights: High-lumen floodlights mounted on racks illuminate scenes at night.
- Bed Lighting: LED strips or spotlights for organizing and accessing gear after dark.
Police trucks are perfect for rural sheriff departments, search-and-rescue, and tactical deployments.
Summary Comparison Table
| Feature Category | Police Sedans | Police SUVs | Police Trucks |
| Primary Focus | Speed & Handling | Cargo & Versatility | Durability & Utility |
| Weapon Mounts | Dash/Overhead Racks | Between Seats/Rear | Floor/Bed Storage |
| Prisoner Transport | Full Partition | Half Cage/Partition | Not Typical |
| Technology Setup | Console Displays | Tablets & ALPR | Drones & Hotspots |
| Suspension | Pursuit-Tuned | Heavy-Duty Load | Off-Road Spec |
Police Vehicle Upfitting: Getting the Right Gear Installed
Whether you’re purchasing new vehicles or retrofitting an existing fleet, police car upfitting transforms basic platforms into fully equipped police units. Upfitting is the process of installing aftermarket equipment that enhances safety, communication, control, and performance.
Common Equipment Across All Police Vehicles
- Light Bars & Directional Lighting: From roof-mounted to interior visor bars, effective lighting is critical. Programmable flash patterns and traffic advisors improve safety during stops and emergencies.
- Sirens and Speakers: High-decibel sirens with multiple tone options and PA systems allow officers to move through traffic quickly and safely.
- Weapon Storage: Whether it’s a trunk vault or center-console locking rack, secure weapon access is non-negotiable for officer safety.
- Camera Systems: Body cams and dash cams are standard. Mounting and powering them properly is key to reliability.
- Computer Mounts: Secure, adjustable laptop/tablet mounts ensure officers can enter data or run IDs without taking their eyes off the road.
- Partitions: Officer-safe barriers keep passengers or detainees secure during transport, often including impact-resistant polycarbonate and sliding access panels.
- Storage Solutions: Weatherproof lockboxes, gear trays, and drawer systems keep critical tools organized and accessible.
TCS Upfitting specializes in custom police upfits tailored to your department’s needs, whether you’re outfitting a fleet of sedans or launching a new K-9 program.
Choosing the Right Police Vehicle for Your Department
When deciding between sedans, SUVs, and trucks, departments must weigh performance needs against daily duties and environments. Here’s a quick guide:
- Urban Patrol: Sedans offer speed and agility for city traffic.
- Suburban/Mixed Terrain: SUVs balance storage, visibility, and tech integration.
- Rural or Tactical Response: Trucks provide space, durability, and off-road capability.
Each vehicle plays a unique role—and the right upfitting makes that role safer and more effective.
Final Thoughts: Outfitting Your Fleet for Real-World Policing
From downtown Wichita to the open roads of rural Kansas and northern Oklahoma, law enforcement needs vehicles that can handle the demands of real-world patrol. Knowing the types of police vehicles available—and what gear works best with each—can help your department maximize safety, readiness, and efficiency.
At TCS Upfitting, we’re here to help your department build a fleet that’s as reliable and capable as your team. Whether you’re adding new SUVs, upfitting your K-9 unit, or retrofitting a pursuit sedan, we provide top-tier installation and support to meet your mission.
Let our team help you choose and install the right equipment—from light bars to storage solutions and everything in between. Contact TCS Upfitting today to get started on building the best vehicles for your team.