Chevrolet’s all-new Tahoe can now be ordered either as a Police Pursuit Vehicle (PPV) or a Special Service Vehicle (SSV) thanks to its two new law enforcement packages.
The PPV variant is designed for high speeds with the added comfort needed by an everyday patrol car, while the SSV is more focused on off-road and towing. Both are powered by the same 5.3-liter V8 engine, mated to a 10-speed automatic gearbox.
“Tahoe is the most aspirational vehicle in the law enforcement industry,” stated Ed Peper, U.S. vice president, GM Fleet. “By listening to the needs of officers from around the country, we have built the best Tahoe ever.”
The PPV model’s engine uses the high-performance rocker covers from the Camaro ZL1 LT4 engine, which improve crankcase ventilation. Meanwhile, engine oil and transmission fluids are cooled by a heavy-duty cooling system, specific for law enforcement applications.
In order to handle the dynamic loads of police pursuits, Chevrolet worked with Bridgestone to develop a pursuit-rated all-season tire, which is how the Firestone Firehawk Pursuit rubber came to be. Mounted on 20-inch steel wheels, these tires were tested at multiple race tracks, while also promoting the PPV’s improved stopping distance – reduced by 11 feet (3.35 meters) from 62 to 0 mph on dry surfaces (compared to the 2020 model).
Other features include the tuned suspension with unique monotube dampers, coil springs and stabilizer bars (for less body roll), a lower ride height for improved stability, a heavy duty braking system with six-piston Brembo calipers at the front, a heavy duty limited slip rear differential and a 140 mph (225 km/h) certified speedometer.
Law enforcement agencies can get the Tahoe PPV in either two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive configuration. However, the SSV is available exclusively with 4WD. These models also come with a Terrain Mode, providing performance similar to 4WD Low without the need for a two-speed transfer case.
Also available is a Max Trailering Package with a max-tow rating of 8,200 lbs (4.1 tons). This package includes an active, two-speed electronic Autotrac transfer case.
What about on-board tech?
All law enforcement-focused Tahoes feature available 4G LTE Wi-Fi Hotspot, a standard HD Rear Vision Camera with Rear Park Assist, and an available Rear Camera Mirror for a wide, less obstructed view behind the vehicle.
New to 2021 models is the standard keyless entry and push-to-start ignition, which means that police officers can leave their keys on their belts for simpler and quicker use.
As for active safety, the Tahoe PPV and SSV get Forward Collision Alert, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, Automatic Emergency Braking, Front Pedestrian Braking and Following Distance Indicator.