A Volkswagen police pursuit car and a prototype emergency services Amarok have starred at the AFAC23 exhibition, Australasia’s largest emergency management conference and exhibition, in Brisbane during August.
The latest version of the screen integration featured in a Volkswagen Passat – thousands of which are already in service in state law enforcement services – is a collaboration with Lumen Australia, Opses UK and Ecco Safety Group.
It features a screen integration system that enables easy activation of lights and sirens through the standard OEM multi-media screen. Number plate recognition capability is now also included. This integration removes the need for multiple screens, saving space, build costs and weight and improves occupant safety. It can be fitted to other Volkswagen emergency services vehicles.
An example of the recently launched Amarok Style V6 premieres in Brisbane in the form of a prototype for a fire and rescue vehicle in conjunction with MFI and Ecco Safety Group. The partnered body integrates rear traffic alert, reversing camera and sensors as well as a built-in rear sign board.
The new Amarok is under evaluation by various fleets across the country.
Volkswagen and CUPRA National Fleet Sales Manager Regine Zschernig said Volkswagens of various types, from the Golf hatchbacks to Crafter vans, are in service with emergency services in every state and territory.
“Year to date, we have sold more than 1,400 Passat Proline wagons and sedans, and almost 600 Tiguan Allspace Proline – and counting,” she said.
Prolines are developed for and with emergency services, differing from civilian issue vehicles in interior trim, upgraded alternator and a provision for an additional battery. In addition to that the Tiguan Allspace Proline is a five seater, fitted with a 162TSI 4Motion drivetrain and sports suspension.
“There are no alterations to brakes, engines or drivetrains,” Ms Zschernig said.
“So aside from the Proline adjustments, the police and ambulance have selected Volkswagen cars and SUVs that are essentially the very cars that the public drive.
“Volkswagen offers an unequalled array of mobility solutions, fit for purpose for fleets of all types. We have compact hatches, a full range of SUVs, a new ute range, and a full suite of commercial vans and chassis up to 5.5t GVM.
“We back them all with Care Plans, five year warranty and more than 100 dealers nationwide.”
