A Volkswagen police pursuit car and a prototype emergency services Amarok starred at the Australasian Fire Authorities Council 2023 (AFAC23) emergency management conference and exhibition in Brisbane on August 22-25.
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, Obses UK and Ecco Safety Group.
It 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 and can be fitted to other Volkswagen emergency services vehicles.
An example of the recently launched Amarok Style V6 premiered 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.
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 1400 Passat Proline wagons and sedans, and almost 600 Tiguan Allspace Proline,” says Volkswagen and Cupra national fleet sales manager Regine Zschernig.
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,” Zschernig adds.
“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.”
Zschernig says VW offers an 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,” she explains.
“We back them all with Care Plans, five-year warranty and more than 100 dealers nationwide.”
