Promotion of green vehicle fleet management and eco-driving practices has taken a major step forward with the introduction of a large number of new hybrid vehicles.
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. This pattern is scientifically proven to enhance the visibility of cars on patrol. 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.
Senior Police Constable Ho Wing-kai, from the Task Force in Traffic New Territories South, favours the hybrid option and responded enthusiastically: "I love driving the hybrid patrol car. It has similar performance and handles just as well as the vehicle it has replaced and I appreciate the Force's contribution to reducing pollution."
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.
Judging from the scheme's popularity with frontline officers, the introduction of more energy efficient, environment-friendly vehicles is a step in the right direction and one that surely reinforces social consciousness in the Force.
The new livery gives the Force and traffic formations in particular a greater sense of identity and purpose