A Close Look at the 2014 Chevrolet Caprice Police Patrol Vehicle
2014 saw Chevrolet unveil a series of enhancements to the Caprice Police Patrol Vehicle (PPV), bolstering its role as a specialized tool for law enforcement departments. These changes were aimed at enhancing performance, comfort, and safety, with a strong focus on customizability for each department's specific requirements.
Design Modifications and Interior Upgrades
The highlight of the 2014 model was the repositioning of the shifter from the center console to a column-shift design, freeing up space for a standard equipment mounting platform. This platform aimed to provide a solid base for the integration of the range of devices police vehicles often carry, eliminating the need for departments to purchase and install a separate platform.
Additional changes incorporated that year were extensive. Among these were a surveillance mode for undercover work, the inclusion of fuel-saving electric power steering, and a redesigned instrument panel and gauge cluster. The model also saw a revamp in its comfort features, with redesigned front seats for better ergonomics and the inclusion of the Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity and a seven-inch color touch screen.
Performance and Power
What set the Caprice PPV apart from its counterparts was that it was developed from the ground up for police duty, not as a variation of a civilian passenger car. The standard 3.6L V-6 engine, rated at 301 horsepower, offered a strong blend of performance and efficiency. Those seeking more power could opt for the available 6.0L V-8, rated at 355 horsepower, which included fuel-saving Active Fuel Management technology and E85 capability.
Transferring the engines' power to the road was a six-speed automatic transmission, calibrated for high-performance driving. Further strengthening its on-road abilities were heavy-duty, four-wheel disc brakes with a police-calibrated anti-lock system, and StabiliTrak stability control, enhancing the vehicle's safety features.
Exterior and Interior Features Tailored for Law Enforcement
Every aspect of the Caprice PPV was tailored with the police officer in mind. The external features included options such as daytime running lamps with reduced intensity and a flashing light system for headlamps and taillamps. Internally, the front seats were sculpted to accommodate equipment belts, and the materials used were selected for durability, breathability, and ease of cleaning.
The 2014 model boasted of wider front seat cushions and revised back bolsters for greater comfort with duty belts. Additional comfort features included six-way power adjustability, including lumbar control and manual reclining back, for the driver's seat.
Performance Specifics
The Caprice PPV offered two engine options - a standard 3.6L V-6 and an optional 6.0L V-8. The 3.6L V-6, with 301 horsepower, was designed with aluminum for low weight and a forged steel crankshaft for bottom-end strength. The V-8 variant, on the other hand, was designed for those seeking more power, offering 355 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque.
Both engines were mated to a six-speed automatic transmission calibrated for police duty. Features like the Sport Mode ensured maximum power and responsiveness when needed.
Safety and Crash-Avoidance Features
Officer safety was a fundamental aspect of the Caprice PPV's design. The structure was designed to offer greater crash protection through the incorporation of high-strength steel in critical areas. The stability control system and the anti-lock braking system were calibrated to police specifications to enhance on-road safety and maintain control during high-speed maneuvers.
Inside the cabin, dual-stage driver and front passenger airbags were included as standard, along with head curtain side airbags for front and rear outboard passengers. In addition, the front seats came equipped with seat-mounted side-impact airbags.
The Caprice PPV also incorporated a number of advanced driver-assist technologies designed to help prevent accidents before they occur. These included available forward collision alert, lane departure warning, and a rear vision camera, all aimed at enhancing situational awareness and overall safety.
Customizability for Department Needs
Chevrolet's Caprice PPV provided law enforcement departments the flexibility to customize the vehicle to suit their specific needs. This included the ability to choose between the standard V-6 or optional V-8 engine, as well as a range of features tailored specifically for law enforcement purposes, such as specialized lighting and audio visual warning systems.
The vehicle's rear seat was also customizable, with options for vinyl or cloth upholstery and an available security partition. Additionally, departments could choose whether to have the full-size spare tire located inside the trunk or externally-mounted for increased storage space.
Final Thoughts
With its impressive blend of power, performance, safety, and customizability, the 2014 Chevrolet Caprice Police Patrol Vehicle represented a significant step forward in the realm of law enforcement transportation. It exemplified Chevrolet's commitment to supporting the critical work of police departments with vehicles designed specifically for their unique needs and challenges.
