Bottom Line Up Front
At least 31 internal‑combustion‑engine (ICE) vehicles operating in the Twin Cities are driving without the emergency lights and sirens the law mandates for emergency response vehicles.
31 ICE Vehicles in Minneapolis‑St. Paul Missing Required Emergency Lights – What the Law Says
Image: 31 ICE Vehicles in Minneapolis‑St. Paul Missing Required Emergency Lights – What the Law Says – Performance Comparison and Specifications
Design & Looks
Most of the offending vehicles are standard police‑interceptor models—Ford Police Interceptor Utility, Chevrolet Tahoe PPV, Dodge Charger Pursuit, and similar trucks. They look like any other patrol car on the road: black or dark‑blue paint, roof‑mounted light bars (often removed), and a simple badge. The lack of flashing lights makes them blend into regular traffic, which raises safety concerns for both officers and civilians.
Performance & Mileage
These ICE patrol cars typically run V6 or V8 gasoline engines delivering 250–350 hp. Real‑world mileage averages 15–18 mpg city, 20–23 mpg highway. Because they’re not equipped with the extra weight of light bars and siren packs, some owners claim a slight fuel‑economy boost, but the legal risk far outweighs any gain.
Price & Rivals
Even without the emergency equipment, the base price for a new police‑interceptor SUV is around $40,000, while a full‑spec version tops $55,000. Used models in Minnesota often sell for $25‑35 k. Rivals such as the Ford F‑150 Police Responder or the new hybrid‑ready Chevrolet Tahoe EV are gaining traction, promising better compliance and lower operating costs.
| Engine | Mileage (mpg) | Price (USD) | Top Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5L V6 (Ford) | 16 city / 22 hwy | $42,000 |
|
| 5.3L V8 (Chevy) | 15 city / 20 hwy | $45,500 |
|
| 3.6L V6 (Dodge) | 17 city / 24 hwy | $40,200 |
|
FAQ
- What law requires emergency lights on ICE patrol cars in Minnesota? Minnesota Statutes § 168.33 mandates that any vehicle used for emergency response must be equipped with flashing lights and a siren audible over normal traffic.
- Can a police department legally remove the lights to save fuel? No. Removing or disabling required emergency equipment violates state law and can result in fines, suspension of vehicle registration, and liability in accidents.
- Are hybrid or electric patrol vehicles a better alternative? Yes. Hybrid and electric models meet the lighting requirement while offering lower fuel costs and reduced emissions, aligning with many cities’ sustainability goals.
What do you think about the current situation? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Source: Read Official News
