Lancashire Police has introduced seven diesel-engined Volvo S60s to its fleet of Motorway cars. The arrival of the high-powered diesel models, all fitted with Volvo’s award winning 185PS D5 engine, means the Lancashire force is one of the first to move into diesel-powered models.

The 2.4-litre, five-cylinder Volvo S60 D5 not only competes with the alternative petrol model on performance but also spends less time at the pumps, averaging almost 40mpg on the official combined cycle. A top speed of 143mph and a massive 400Nm of torque available from 2000rpm also ensure the S60 D5 is more than up to the endurance task the Lancashire Constabulary will put it through.

The switch from the popular V70 T5 (260PS) petrol estate to the swift and nimble Volvo S60 D5 follows a shift in the remit of the Highways Agency, which has allowed the Lancashire Police force to utilise alternative vehicles to downsize and re-focus much of the fleet.


Chris Malkin, Lancashire Police Fleet Manager, said, “We were looking for a vehicle combining motorway performance with reduced fuel costs and environmental impact. The Volvo S60 D5 provides the performance we require while achieving significant fuel savings. Better still, diesel powered D5 is kinder to the environment than the petrol vehicles they have replaced.”

Commenting on the appeal of the Volvo product, Chris added, “The proven reliability of Volvo cars in the policing environment, their safety features, warranty and support, all provide an excellent package for our motorway role.”

All vehicles are fitted with the latest LED lights bars supplied by RSG Engineering, mobile data terminals and ANPR equipment. All the commissioning and equipment installation was carried out by Lancashire Police’s Vehicle Maintenance Unit at Hutton on the outskirts of Preston. In addition, Lancashire Police workshop staff are trained in all aspects of the Volvo product including the new VIDA diagnostic system.