42 MPG combined isn’t just a number for the 2019 Ford Fusion Special Service Vehicle (SSV) PHEV; it’s a lifeline. This isn’t a commuter car or a family sedan chasing hybrid efficiency awards. This is a purpose-built machine, designed to spend its life idling at crime scenes, patrolling city streets, and responding to emergencies, all while minimizing its drain on taxpayer dollars and the environment.

City and highway performance

The EPA rates the Fusion SSV PHEV at 43 MPG in the city and 40 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect the vehicle’s plug-in hybrid powertrain, which uses electric power at lower speeds to maximize efficiency. Stop-and-go driving, a constant reality for law enforcement vehicles in urban environments, is where the SSV PHEV excels. Conversely, out on the open road, the gasoline engine relies less on electric assistance, leading to a slightly lower, though still impressive, highway rating.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Ford Fusion SSV PHEV at exactly $1,050. This number is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and using national average fuel prices at the time of calculation. While individual driving habits and local fuel costs may cause some variation, $1,050 provides a solid benchmark for understanding the potential fuel savings offered by this PHEV compared to a traditional gasoline-powered police vehicle. Consider that a standard V6-powered police interceptor SUV can easily double that annual fuel cost.

Real-world expectations

The EPA’s 42 MPG provides a valuable point of reference, but real-world fuel economy of a Fusion SSV PHEV will vary widely based on usage. Idling time, a common occurrence for police vehicles, significantly impacts fuel economy. Aggressive driving, frequent acceleration, and the use of emergency equipment will further reduce the observed MPG. However, even with these factors considered, agencies can anticipate significant fuel savings compared to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles, especially if they prioritize using the vehicle’s electric range (estimated at around 25 miles) for local patrols.

How it compares

The absence of direct competitors in the specialized “police PHEV sedan” segment makes direct comparisons challenging. However, examining the broader landscape of hybrid and PHEV sedans offers some perspective. The Toyota Camry Hybrid LE, for example, boasts a combined EPA rating of 52 MPG, appealing to consumers prioritizing fuel efficiency, but lacks the heavy-duty components and durability required for police work. The Honda Accord Hybrid achieves 47 MPG combined, another high-efficiency option suitable for personal use. Comparing these numbers to the Fusion SSV PHEV highlights the inherent compromises in designing a vehicle for law enforcement; it sacrifices some fuel economy for reliability, specialized equipment, and higher electrical loads to power police radios and lights. Even when looking at other Ford vehicles, the FUSION MPG across all years will not reflect these values, because this is a special police package. For agencies evaluating the Fusion SSV PHEV, the decision comes down to balancing fuel efficiency with the specific demands of police operations.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Prioritize electric-only operation whenever feasible. Law enforcement agencies should encourage officers to use the vehicle’s electric range for routine patrols and low-speed activities. This reduces reliance on the gasoline engine and minimizes fuel consumption, especially in stop-and-go traffic.

Implement anti-idling policies where possible. Excessive idling wastes fuel and reduces the overall efficiency of the vehicle. Encouraging officers to turn off the engine when parked for extended periods can contribute to significant fuel savings over time, particularly because the vehicle can be set up to have its computer, radios, and lights remain functional during idling periods.

Monitor tire pressure regularly. Maintaining proper tire inflation improves rolling resistance and optimizes fuel economy. Incorporate tire pressure checks into routine vehicle maintenance procedures to ensure optimal performance.

Manage acceleration and braking. Aggressive driving habits can drastically reduce fuel economy. Encourage smooth acceleration and gentle braking to minimize energy waste and improve overall efficiency. If possible, agencies could consider installing driving habit feedback systems that encourage safe and conservative driving.

Consider route optimization. Planning routes that minimize stop-and-go driving and traffic congestion can help to improve fuel economy. Use traffic data and navigation systems to identify efficient routes and reduce unnecessary fuel consumption. All Fords now come available with connected services and agencies would do well to use all Ford fuel economy data to help ensure optimal fleet performance.