Ford Unveils Stealth Concept Police Interceptor at SEMA
Ford’s stealth-inspired Police Interceptor concept, revealed at the 2010 SEMA Show, previews the brand’s next-generation police vehicle with a dramatic design and new powertrains.
Ford presented a stealth-themed concept version of its new Police Interceptor at the 2010 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, showcasing a dramatic departure from the long-serving Crown Victoria and previewing the next generation of American police vehicles.
SR-71 Blackbird Inspiration and Design Details
The concept’s visual theme draws directly from the SR-71 Blackbird, the high-altitude reconnaissance aircraft renowned for its stealth capabilities. Ford designer Melvin Betancourt applied this inspiration, giving the Interceptor a menacing, low-slung stance. The body sits an inch lower than standard, and the car rides on 22-inch wheels with staggered rim sections, three inches at the front, 3.5 inches at the rear. The wheels combine gloss black centres with chrome rims, aiming for a blend of hot rod aggression and a purposeful, intimidating look.
The car’s overall appearance is intended to send a clear message, both to lawbreakers and to the police officers who will use it. Ford’s approach moves away from the traditional, upright police saloon silhouette, instead favouring a more modern, assertive design.
Technical Advances and Powertrains
Ford’s new Police Interceptor range, previewed by this concept, is built on a platform shared with the Taurus and Flex. Buyers will have a choice of two 3.5-litre V6 engines: a naturally aspirated version producing at least 280 horsepower, with E85 compatibility, and a twin-turbocharged EcoBoost unit delivering at least 365 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. Ford claims the base V6 is 25 percent more efficient than the outgoing 4.6-litre V8 in the Crown Victoria, a key consideration for police fleets.
| Engine options | 3.5-litre V6 (280+ hp), 3.5-litre EcoBoost V6 (365+ hp) |
|---|---|
| Transmission | Not specified |
| Drivetrain | All-wheel drive (platform capability) |
| Suspension | Lowered by 1 inch |
| Wheels | 22-inch, staggered rim sections (3" front, 3.5" rear) |
| Fuel compatibility | E85 (naturally aspirated V6) |
The Interceptor’s platform supports all-wheel drive, though Ford did not specify the exact configuration for the SEMA concept. The focus is on performance, efficiency and the ability to handle the diverse demands of police work.
Production Plans and Model Transition
Ford’s stealth concept appeared as the company prepared to end production of the Crown Victoria Police Interceptor in late 2011. Both the new Interceptor saloon and a utility version were set to launch together, marking a shift in Ford’s police vehicle strategy. The SEMA concept was intended to demonstrate the flexibility of the new platform and the potential for customisation, as well as to generate interest among law enforcement buyers.
The SEMA display ran from 2 to 5 November 2010, giving police agencies and industry insiders an early look at the future of Ford’s police fleet. The production versions would soon replace the Crown Victoria across North America.
