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Police cars have a tough life. After all, these units are expected to run, day or night, rain or shine, often at the very limit of what they can do. As such, police departments tend to buy cars they can depend on. However, you might have noticed that many, most really, police cars in the United States are American in origin. So, is there a reason why so many PD vehicles are from the US?

Police cars in the United States tend to be from the US for acquisition and policy reasons

Ford Taurus. Dodge Charger. Chevrolet Impala. Ford Explorer. Oh, and of course, the instantly recognizable Ford Crown Victoria. These police car options are all wildly popular among departments in the United States. However, have you ever taken a step back and wondered why? 

No, it’s not so your neighbor can go LARPing as an officer of the law. Nor is it to put you on edge whenever you see one. Although you might slow down and mind your habits whenever you see a Taurus cruising through your favorite spirited driving roads. No, the reason for the American badges on police cars is a matter of policy and price.

American badges offer law enforcement-spec vehicles like cars and SUVs for direct purchase by police departments. What’s more, local, state, and federal purchasing policy tends to skew toward the ol’ stars and stripes. Why purchase a fleet of Kia sedans or Volkswagen SUVs when you can slap your department livery on a Ford Explorer? Done and done. 

Moreover, according to CNBC, as of 2023, Ford controls over half the domestic police car market. In fact, Ford has been offering police-spec and service-ready vehicles since the 1950s. Doubt it? Just check out the law enforcement agencies nearest you– there are likely Blue Oval badges in their fleet. 

It’s not just police cars, either. Most federally owned government vehicles are American. For instance, should you take a trip down to your local U.S. military recruiting station, there’s a good chance that the vehicles out front will be of the domestic persuasion, likely in white, and more than likely brandishing plates that say “U.S. GOVERNMENT” and “FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY.”

That said, if you’re wondering what happens to those rides after Uncle Sam or your local government has no further use for them, they typically go to auction. So, if you see potential where others see a potential ticket, you can always buy a surplus Crown Victoria or Dodge Charger at auction. However, you should remember that these vehicles live hard, hard lives.

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Staff Writer

Erik Sherman

Erik Sherman joined the MotorBiscuit team as an Autos Writer in 2022. An admitted petrolhead and an avid motorcyclist, Erik has owned everything from classic cars to motorcycles to modern driver’s cars. Erik also has extensive experience with military and emergency vehicles, ranging from ambulances and fire engines to MRAPs and M-ATVs. Erik is an eager car and motorcycle reviewer with experience covering everything from sports cars to pontoon boats and jet skis.

Erik holds a Bachelor’s Degree in International Relations (IRG) from the University of Texas at Austin and has studied Chinese, Energy, and European Politics at the University of Glasgow in Scotland. Erik’s background is unorthodox; he is a United States Marine Corps (USMC) combat veteran, water survival practitioner, and a former firefighter/EMT. Additionally, Erik is a regular volunteer and former instructor with the American Red Cross (ARC).