Lexus RX and GS hybrids join NSW Police fleet

The Lexus RX SUV and Lexus GS luxury sedan have been added to the NSW Police Force fleet.

The Lexus RX450h and GS450h petrol-electric models are to be used in the southern parts of NSW, with coverage from the Royal National Park near Wollongong to the Kosciuszko National Park and NSW snowfields as part of NSW Police’s Road Safe and Snow Safe campaigns.

While they won’t join the ranks as patrol cars, NSW Police expects the two models with their eye-catching livery to get the message across about safe driving in winter conditions.

NSW Police Force southern region Inspector Jim Fryday indicated the cars will be used in roadside campaigns as well as sports, community and motorsport events.

“Road safety remains one of the top priorities for police, and unique cars like a Lexus are a great way to engage with the community and discuss safe driver behaviour,” Inspector Fryday said.

“The Lexus hybrids will give us an opportunity to talk to people on an informal basis and hopefully make a positive impression about police and what we do,” he said. “One of the hybrids will be our ‘Snow Safe’ community car throughout the ski season â€" it will be highly visible and remind motorists to slow down, check for hazards and arrive safe.”

The Road Safe and Snow Safe initiatives will target speeding drivers and drink-drivers, as well as driver fatigue. The vehicles begin their official duties on the June long weekend, marking the start of the Australian ski season.