Following successful trials in Traffic Kowloon East and Lantau North over the past two years, the Force recently acquired another 92 of the latest environment-friendly hybrid vehicles for frontline operations in both crime and uniformed branches.

Hybrid patrol cars decked in a new "Battenburg" livery have been delivered to Traffic Formations and will soon be seen in their high profile role on strategic road networks, alongside their large estate cousins in similar trim. "Battenburg" refers to the block pattern graphics that provide for stark contrast with any background and it is scientifically proven to enhance conspicuousness in high-visibility policing. This relatively new concept has been adopted by a number of overseas police forces in Europe, North America, New Zealand, and, closer to home, Malaysia.

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SPC Ho's colleagues in New Territories South also like the new livery. "It's very eye-catching, modern looking and clearly identifiable as a police vehicle," commented Constable Chan Ka-ming.

On Hong Kong Island, traffic officers are similarly grateful for a change in both livery and vehicle. "The new livery design will definitely enhance the safety of police officers and road users as it is very conspicuous and can be spotted from far away," said Constable So Chi-wai.

Sergeant Wan Wai-keung added: "I like the new livery and introduction of the Force crest on the vehicle. It gives the Force and traffic formations in particular a greater sense of identity and purpose."

Judging from its popularity with frontline officers, introduction of more energy efficient, environment-friendly vehicles is a step in the right direction and one that surely reinforces the Force social consciousness.

The new livery gives the Force and traffic formations in particular a greater sense of identity and purpose