Ford revamps police paddy wagon for a new era

Ford is making a new play for the paddy wagon business.

It has created a paddy wagon concept version of its new, full-size Transit commercial van -- officially known as the Prisoner Transport Vehicle or Transit PTV -- to show off to police agencies. It can carry 12 detainees in three compartments.

Really, it's just a fancy new version of the paddy wagon that's been a mainstay of urban policing for a century. Police would typically handcuff suspected lawbreakers -- from miscreants from Skid Row to rowdy protesters or rioters -- to bench seats on either side of the truck's box for a quick trip to the slammer.

Until recently, Ford offered the E-Series, or Econoline, as its main full-size van and some agencies use it as a paddy wagon. But the new Transit is a roomier and taller van, which presents new opportunities.

"This new vehicle is tough, smart and efficient – ideal for the needs of law enforcement agencies," says Jonathan Honeycutt, Ford police marketing manager, in a statement.

The truck was created in conjunction with a outfitter, Havis Prisoner Transport Solutions of Warminster, Penn. It also draws on suggestions from police officials who consult with Ford for its other law-enforcement vehicles. Ford offers two popular police pursuit vehicles based on its Taurus full-size sedan and Explorer SUV.

Ford officials think the new van could be a hit.

"Many Police Advisory Board members have had the chance to drive this vehicle and they are excited about it," says Honeycutt.

Transit will come with a choice of three roof heights, two wheelbases, three lengths and four body styles. It is powered by a 3.7-liter V-6, 3.5-liter turbocharged V-6 or 3.2-liter diesel.