Charles Co. Sheriff Adds Slick Top Impalas to Patrol Fleet

The Charles County Sheriff’s Office recently launched the introduction of the Chevrolet Impala to their fleet.  Impalas have an initial savings of nearly $3,000 compared to the Ford Crown Victoria.  Initial findings indicate the Impala’s actual fuel efficiency is 3.0 to 5.5 miles per gallon better than the traditional police cruiser.  

“I am extremely impressed with the savings and fuel efficiency,” said Sheriff Rex Coffey.  “The acquisition of these vehicles has given us the opportunity to cut costs and help the environment.”

The Impala isn’t the only new concept introduced by the Sheriff; an increased number of “slick tops” have also appeared.  Slick tops are marked police vehicles without an exterior rooftop mounted light bar.  Studies show increased fuel efficiency when a vehicle does not have a light bar.

These “slick tops” will not completely eliminate the traditional cruiser.  Officers who respond frequently to accidents or responding priority will keep them.  

“Visibility is extremely important in those particular cases and it is beneficial to everyone they drive cars with the light bar,” said Sheriff Coffey.

In the past, commanders drove unmarked police vehicles but now many drive marked cruisers without the exterior light bar. 

“Slick top vehicles give us the best of both worlds,” said Sheriff Coffey, “more visibility and fuel efficiency.”

.