Volkswagen’s
targeting the UK police with the new Police Support Unit (PSU). Based on the
long wheelbase, Trendline trim level version of the Crafter, it features a lot
of upgrades over the regular, £ 30,009 (US$ 38,739/€ 34,747) van.
The side body
panels have been modified to add windows and the front windscreen is now
resistant to impact, so there’s no need for a metal guard screen. The riot van
can sit seven inside, whereas the rear end has a prison cell. The unique
storage system allows officers to store their shields, helmets and other
equipment.
Power comes from a
2.0-liter diesel engine rated at 177 PS. In the panel van,
the TDI unit is used in the FWD, RWD and AWD configurations and can be coupled
to a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Converted by
Coleman Milne Specialist Vehicles, this Crafter will be shown to the public at
the Commercial Vehicle Show at NEC Birmingham between April 30 and May 2. From
there, it will take its place on the company’s demo fleet for the country’s
police forces to trial and loan.
