RCMP rolls out new vehicle design

The RCMP are rolling out a new vehicle design for their frontline officers beginning this summer.

The new design features an all-black Ford SUV with white doors that have the words police, RCMP, and the RCMP insignia. There will also be high visibility strips on the SUVs.

“The new design has been developed with distinctive markings to help us stand out from non-police vehicles,” stated a RCMP press release.

This is the first time since 1994 that the policing agency has changed the look of their vehicles. According to the RCMP, the change is “a refreshed look that improves visibility and supports a modern distinctive look and helps to ensure the vehicles are recognizable as police cars.”

Although the basic design of the cars will be the same across the country, there will be “local identifiers based on regional requirements.” A RCMP spokesperson said the local identifiers are the seals of the municipality, province, or territory that the SUV serves in, which will be placed on the car.

“These variations allow for local flexibility and help demonstrate our connection with the communities we serve, while preserving a consistent, recognizable national RCMP identity,” stated the press release.

The new cars will start patrols this summer and gradually phase out the current all white models over time as they are retired.

“This approach supports cost‑effective fleet replacement and ensures uninterrupted policing services,” stated the press release.

The RCMP is aware that a change in appearance of their cruisers could raise concerns about impersonation. People are advised to contact the local RCMP detachment to verify the car number, license plate, or police officer’s name or badge number.