NC State Highway Patrol Deploys High-Powered Ford Mustang GTs

NC --  The North Carolina State Highway Patrol (NCSHP) is taking speed enforcement to the next level with its newly introduced fleet of V8-

powered Ford Mustang GT police interceptors.

This move marks a return to the state patrol’s historical use of Mustangs in the 1980s and 1990s while modernizing the force’s capabilities with cutting-edge performance and technology.

Bringing Back the Mustang Legacy
Back in the late 20th century, the NCSHP used Ford Mustangs to combat speeding violations on highways. Now, with advancements in both automotive technology and the increasing demand for high-speed pursuit vehicles, the agency has reintroduced the powerful Mustang GT into active service.

The newly commissioned fleet consists of 25 Mustang GTs, each equipped with a 5.0-liter V8 engine producing 480 horsepower and a 10-speed automatic transmission. These muscle cars are specifically designed for interstate patrols, aiming to reduce reckless driving and deter high-speed infractions across the state.

Statewide Deployment
While the exact locations of these Mustangs' assignments remain undisclosed, they will primarily focus on interstate highways where speeding and aggressive driving are major concerns. The high-performance Mustangs will blend into traffic while maintaining the ability to engage speeders when necessary.

The new units will be utilized across various regions of North Carolina, ensuring that major thoroughfares such as I-40, I-85, and I-95 remain under close watch. Their sleek design, coupled with an unmarked or minimally marked appearance, will allow troopers to operate efficiently while maintaining the element of surprise.

Enhanced Performance & Safety Features
These Mustangs are more than just speed machines—they are equipped with advanced law enforcement technology, including:

Radar and LIDAR speed detection systems
Upgraded police communication tools
High-visibility emergency lighting
Enhanced braking and handling modifications for pursuit situations
The NCSHP believes this investment will significantly enhance their ability to reduce traffic fatalities and prevent reckless driving incidents.

A Statement from the NCSHP
According to officials, the goal of deploying these Mustangs is not just about chasing down speeders, but creating a stronger deterrent against dangerous driving behaviors. The presence of these high-performance vehicles should make motorists think twice before engaging in excessive speeding or reckless driving.

Lieutenant Marcus Bethea of the NCSHP commented:

“We want to ensure the safety of all North Carolina drivers, and part of that is having the tools necessary to enforce traffic laws effectively. The Ford Mustang GT provides our troopers with a powerful, responsive vehicle that can match modern highway threats while keeping officers and citizens safe.”

“These patrol vehicles, while small in number, will serve a valuable purpose throughout our state,” Their presence while on patrol will undoubtedly help to serve as a deterrent and assist in our important role as ambassadors for the great state of North Carolina.” North Carolina Highway Patrol commander Colonel Freddy L. Johnson, Jr. said. “

With this new fleet of V8-powered Mustang GT interceptors, the North Carolina State Highway Patrol is reinforcing its commitment to highway safety and cracking down on excessive speed violations. Whether you’re commuting on I-40, heading down I-85, or traveling through North Carolina’s scenic routes, you might just spot one of these high-powered Mustangs patrolling the highways—so drive responsibly!

WNCTimes

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