Ford Kuga and BMW X1 emerged as winners, with strong performance in handling, steering and braking, as well as overall comfort.
Developments in the market for electric vehicles are booming, and the police also recognize that it is time to take a more sustainable path. With the recent announcement of the award of new basic police vehicles (BPV passenger cars), the police are taking a significant step in their efforts to reduce CO2 emissions. The new fleet consists of the Ford Kuga Full Hybrid and the BMW X1, selected on the basis of thorough testing and various criteria.
selection process
The tender process was anything but a rush job. After a year and a half of preparation, collecting feedback and extensive testing, the contracts have been awarded to the suppliers of the two best-performing passenger cars. “It was an intensive process in which many aspects had to be taken into account. We want our colleagues to be able to carry out their work properly and safely,” emphasizes Michel de Roos, the chairman of the steering group in charge of the purchase.
In May, dozens of police colleagues from various units tested the cars, both on the circuit in Lelystad and on public roads. Criteria such as braking behaviour, driving comfort and ergonomic aspects have been extensively evaluated. Jaimy, an agent from the Hague unit, says: “These tests are essential; we are ultimately the ones who will use the cars.”
The environment plays a prominent role in this purchase. From the end of 2025, about 500 of the current fossil vehicles will be replaced by electric alternatives.
It was not only the technical excellence that determined the choice. The final decision was determined 1 percent by user testing, XNUMX percent by price, and XNUMX percent by other qualitative criteria. As a result, the Ford Kuga and BMW XXNUMX emerged as winners, with strong performance in handling, steering and braking, as well as overall comfort.
future
If all goes according to plan, the new contract with Ford and BMW will cover the supply and maintenance of basic police vehicles from January 2025 to December 2029, with a possible extension to December 2032. This not only marks an important step for the police force, but symbolizes also the continuous development in sustainable mobility in the broader social spectrum.
With this new purchase, the police are taking an important step towards a more sustainable and efficient future. Through careful planning, thorough testing and a strong focus on sustainability, the Ford Kuga Full Hybrid and the BMW X1 are the new faces of the Dutch police fleet.
