The RCMP has announced that they will be updating the design of their front-line vehicles for the first time in over 30 years. They say their new design will improve visibility and showcase a ‘modern, distinctive appearance’.
The new design, featuring white doors on a black base and reflective graphics, will allow RCMP vehicles to be easily recognized no matter the conditions they appear in. With the wide range of climates and environments across Canada, an easily visible and recognizable profile is an important part of any law-enforcement vehicle.
Provinces, territories, and municipalities will be able to add regional identifiers based on their local requirements, allowing for flexibility and showing a connection to local communities, while still maintaining a unified national RCMP identity.
The RCMP says that the transition to these new designs will be gradual, with the first new vehicles likely appearing on roads in the late summer. Current vehicles will remain in service until they reach the end of their lifespan and will operate side by side with the new vehicles.
While a new design for law-enforcement vehicles can cause confusion and concerns about impersonation, the RCMP advises the public that if they have concerns about the legitimacy of a police vehicle, they can contact their local detachment to verify the car number and license plate.
