American automotive manufacturers provide select vehicles for civil fleets including police cars, ambulances and fire chief vehicles. These civil-oriented models are based on various production sedans and sport utility vehicles, and include a 2014 Dodge Durango Special Service model designed for fire, police and civil fleet customers. Last week, the Chrysler Group released information about its special-purpose Dodge Durango.
The new model is being built at the Jefferson North Assembly Plant in Detroit with orders being received now. The Durango is a crossover utility vehicle that shares its platform with the Jeep Grand Cherokee.
Special Service Engine Choices
Two engine choices are available with the special service Durango: a 3.6-liter V-6 making 290 horsepower and 260 foot-pounds of torque and a 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 making 360 horsepower and 390 foot-pounds of torque. Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, helping to deliver upwards of a 15 percent fuel efficiency improvement over previous models. The HEMI also utilizes cylinder deactivation technology that shuts down four cylinders when operating at lower performance levels.
The V-6 special service model has a towing capacity of up to 6,200 pounds and a driving range of over 600 miles. It delivers up to 25 miles per gallon of regular grade gasoline. The V-8 engine can pull up to 7,400 pounds and also takes regular grade gasoline. This model can deliver up to 23 mpg.
The Dodge Durango Special Service model joins two other Chrysler Group products to serve government fleet customers: the Dodge Charger Pursuit sedan and the Ram 1500 Special Service truck. Peter Grady, Vice President of Network Development and Fleet Operations said, “The 2014 Dodge Durango Special Service model is a state-of-the-art resource for fleet customers.” He noted that it has “…been specifically designed for the demands and rigors of fleet duty.”
(See Also — New Safety Tech Accompanies 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe Pursuit Vehicle)
Dodge Durango Upgrades
That special duty capability is apparent with the multiple upgrades this vehicle has received including a heavy-duty battery, a 220-amp alternator, a heavy-duty water pump and engine cooler, a heavy-duty brake package and a load leveling system.
Inside, the cabin was designed to meet the needs of government fleet buyers. This model includes a programmable seven-inch display in the gauge cluster, a Uconnect infotainment five-inch touchscreen with voice command and Bluetooth, a media hub for USB, SD media card and auxiliary jack integration, and Bluetooth streaming audio. This model is also equipped with new LED daytime running lamps and rear race track tail lamps, the latter lasting longer than traditional bulbs in a bid to reduce maintenance costs.
Exclusive to the Durango Special Service model is a rear cargo area equipped with under floor storage compartments and side storage compartments. Other modifications include a special service headliner, a red and white interior dome lamp, and spot lamp wiring preparation. Unlike other Durango models, the special service edition does not include a third row seat. Instead, it has been deleted to free up cargo capacity. However, the second row controls for heating and cooling remain in place.
Durango Handling and Safety
Special service vehicle upgrades including a skid plate group for all-wheel drive models, a rear view back up camera, a trailer tow group, an engine block heater and Uconnect mobile access capability are available.
Chrysler says that the special service safety and security features number more than 60 and include stability control, traction control, hill start assist, electronic brake-force distribution, electronic roll mitigation and trailer sway control. Seat-mounted and side curtain airbags are standard; front-row active head restraints are also included. Every special service model is covered by a 5-year/100,000-mile fully transferrable powertrain warranty.
Further Reading
Ford Police Interceptors Make the Fuel Efficiency Grade
Chrysler Introduces Dodge Durango Special Service Vehicle
Australian Built Chevy Caprice Cop Car Rolls Out
Photo courtesy of the Chrysler Group.