New-look cruisers roll onto region streets

new and improved wheels

York Regional Police and citizens across the region were talking a blue streak about a new vehicle design unveiled in July 2023.

The vehicles feature a simpler, two-tone design, with navy blue adorning the front and rear of the vehicle. The door panels and roof are mostly white, with the police service branding and crest displayed proudly.

The high-contrast look was an intentional choice to make the cruiser instantly recognizable and visible to passers-by. The selection was made in collaboration with community partners.

The final design was the top pick from a host of more than 40 designs, following consultation in May with members sitting on District Liaison, Police Community Advisory and Investigative Services Community Advisory committees.

Bold, blue and beautiful they may be, but ultimately, the redesign of the patrol vehicle came down to two things: Safety and comfort. For a frontline officer on patrol, the cruiser serves as their office for their 12-hour shift.

“Comfort and ergonomics are factors we cannot take for granted given the amount of time our officers spend in these vehicles.”

Deputy Chief Cecile Hammond

“We’re pleased to offer our frontline officers a more comfortable, safer vehicle that also increases their visibility in the community,” said Chief Jim MacSween.

Sharp looks are great—but it’s what’s on the inside that counts. From the driver’s seat, officers have access to new equipment and features designed to keep them and others safe. New emergency lighting can be synced from vehicle to vehicle, allowing officers to manage roadside scenes more effectively. Sirens are now more rugged and louder than before.

The placement of in-car equipment, such as a mounted tablet and keyboard and a secure rifle mount, was carefully considered to keep officers from straining or growing achy, even at the end of a shift. Spotlights are now operated electronically, rather than with an old-fashioned handle and lights are integrated with the on-board computer.

 “Comfort and ergonomics are factors we cannot take for granted given the amount of time our officers spend in these vehicles,” said Deputy Chief of Administration Cecile Hammond, who oversees the staff tasked with the redesign.

The new cruisers will replace the old design, first rolled out a decade ago, through attrition over the next four years. Look out for the blue-and-white motif on other York Regional Police vehicles also, like the patrol helicopter, Air2, motorcycles, marine vessels and all-terrain vehicles.