Environment-friendly patrol cars on the way

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These new small saloon cars boast 50 per cent less harmful emissions and consume less fuel than other vehicles of the same class. More importantly, they will replace a sizable number of small police motorcycles being used for patrol. This will afford more flexibility in deployment and enhance officers' safety, especially during adverse weather conditions, meeting the Force's Occupational Safety and Health obligations.

The new patrol car is based on the Nissan Tiida and has been modified for Police use. It offers a spacious interior and a good storage space. Its engine has considerably more power capacity than the outgoing vehicles while providing better fuel economy and offering a better driving environment for both the driver and passengers.

Officers have come up with favourable comments after trying out the new patrol car.  Commented Police Driver Wu Chun-ming from Sha Tin Division: "This new small patrol car is definitely an improvement over the old ones. It is very easy to drive; the engine is quite gutsy for a small car like the Tiida, and the automatic transmission is very smooth. There is a lot of space in the car, and I love driving this car on patrol."

Station Sergeant (SSGT) Wong Kwok-keung from Traffic Kowloon East, a non-cadre driver, said: "I like the spacious interior of the vehicle. The large front and side windows provide very good and all-round visibility. The vehicle also offers comfort for passengers with its quietness and good seating arrangement."

On the use of the new car by the Traffic Formation, SSGT Wong said: "Initially some officers had reservations but now they are convinced it is a useful addition to the Formation."

According to plans, all the frontline units in the five land regions will have their old small patrol cars replaced with new, environment-friendly vehicles.

Some officers have tried out the new patrol car to their satisfaction