In September 2019, Minister of the Interior Herbert Reul presented the new patrol car models to the public - now the first two Mercedes Vito patrol cars have arrived in Bielefeld. The police stations on Kesselbrink and in Brackwede received Mercedes-Benz Vito 119 CDI vehicles with a short wheelbase today. The intention is to completely convert the Bielefeld police patrol car fleet to Mercedes Vito and Ford S-MAX by March 2021. The current BMW 3 Series model will be replaced as a patrol car. In future, a total of 16 Mercedes Vito and 32 Ford S-MAX will ensure recognizable safety in the Bielefeld city area.
The Mercedes is powered by a 2.0 l diesel engine with 190 hp and 9-speed automatic transmission, which meets current environmental standards. The top speed is specified by the factory as 205 km/h. The car is 4.90 meters long, 1.94 m high and 1.90 m wide, making it only slightly longer than the Ford S-Max.
The car impresses in particular with its generous amount of space and clever details. The front and intersection flashers as well as the lighting on the trunk lid are familiar from the Ford S-Max as an improvement in visibility and have been consistently continued in this model. In addition to the reversing camera, a video system enables visual recording of the area in front of and behind the vehicle and improves the possibilities for self-protection. In addition to "STOP POLICE", patrol officers can also use a signal transmitter to display the messages "DANGER", "LOCK" or "STOW".
The interior offers plenty of space for police-specific equipment and for up to five people. The middle of the three rear seats can be converted into a small desk, which makes written work in the patrol car easier. The seats in the "police version" of the vehicle are robust and offer plenty of freedom of movement.
The Bielefeld police officers were extensively involved in the selection of the new patrol car and were able to express their wishes and criticisms during the procurement process. This vehicle clearly meets the need for more space in the interior, increased visibility and more safety in everyday life.