Force Large Van upgraded
The Force is in the final stage of delivering the last of 83 Large Vans to Formations throughout Hong Kong. The latest version of the Large Van is the Mercedes Benz 519, which is an updated and more powerful model of the one being used.
The Large Van is the mainstay of the Force's vehicle fleet. The 500 cars in service are the dominant single four-wheeled vehicle type. Though primarily used by Emergency Unit, the Large Van is also used by divisions, traffic and Police Tactical Unit Company and Platoon as Commanders' vehicles.
Compared with the previous versions of the Large Van, there are some differences between the old and new models. Those delivered to Traffic Formations are using the "Battenburg" livery that provides greater conspicuousness, and all of the vehicles have been fitted with a new load-carrying system at the rear.
In preparation for development of the Large Van, Transport Division will continue to consult users to ascertain what improvements can be made.
The Large Van has been reclassified as Specialised Vehicle (from General Purpose Vehicle), which means the Force now has greater involvement in the procurement process. The current batch of Large Vans is the first procured as Specialised Vehicles and, with the process now within the control of the Force, replacement will be made more regularly and with greater emphasis on the Force's needs.
One
of the features of the Large Van is a new load-carrying system