ALBANY, N.Y. (WNYT) – New York State Police have unveiled the addition of new patrol vehicles to its fleet.
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According to State Police, a total of 19 Ford Mustang GT patrol vehicles has been acquired. Included in that number is a prototype which has been used for training and evaluation.
Police say the vehicle will begin its initial patrols around the Capital Region this week.
The rest of the vehicles are being currently being outfitted with emergency lighting, communications, and safety equipment before deploying statewide.
“Our goal is to provide troopers with the tools they need to safely and effectively carry out their mission,” said NYSP Superintendent Steven G. James. “The Mustang enhances our ability to conduct traffic enforcement while reinforcing our commitment to protecting the public on New York’s roadways.”
As State Police transitions its fleet to SUV’s, officials say the new vehicles will be an effective tool for addressing aggressive driving, excessive speeding, and other hazardous driving behaviors.
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Police say the vehicles also cost about 30% less than their SUV counterparts.