LandCruiser 300 Series rumbles into QPS fleet

TOYOTA’S new LandCruiser 300 Series District Duty Officer (DDO) vehicles are being rolled out across Queensland with a long list of the latest policing equipment on board, as well as a bespoke ARB fit out.

They are the first fully-equipped, purpose-built DDO vehicles, according to QPS, designed by the senior officers who will be using them in a range of dynamic response scenarios.

“There is over 100 years of on-road supervision and leadership experience in this vehicle,” said Assistant Commissioner of the Organisational Capability Command, Matthew Vanderbyl.

“This vehicle has been designed by the very officers responsible for leading frontline policing, which means it has everything they could want or need to do their job efficiently and safely.”

The LandCruisers feature an impressive array of cutting-edge technology, including tools, communication systems, safety devices, clever storage, command planning equipment, and search and specialist lighting equipment.

A new rumbler siren uses low frequency sound waves, emitted through large subwoofers fitted to the front of the vehicle, creating vibrations that people in the vicinity of the vehicle will feel throughout their body.

GoAuto got to experience the new rumbler system first-hand at the QPS fleet facility in Brisbane, which certainly “does what it says on the box”.

“You really feel it, don’t you?” asked Mr Vanderbyl, after briefly activating the new rumbler siren for us and watching us jump.

The rumbler system is felt before it’s heard, designed for use in scenarios where people may not be fully present (or sober) - however it’s also ear-piercingly loud.

Factory Toyota accessories including a bull bar and snorkel are fitted to the vehicles, chosen for their compatibility with on-board safety systems, however the suspension appears to be untouched.

The silver LandCruisers are kitted out with distinguishing decals, including numbering on the roof making them identifiable to QPS’ Polair unit, which will allow them to link with helicopters in the event of a chase or search.

Some of the technology we were shown included a unique red light at the rear designed to prevent onlookers from seeing what police are looking at, as well as Reveal Shield PRO night vision equipment that will allow officers to locate people or objects for up to 50 metres in dark situations.

Toyota’s new 300 Series is more powerful, economical, and tougher than the outgoing 200 Series LandCruiser, and Mr Vanderbyl says they’re a resounding hit within the force.

“Everyone loves them and they’re hard to beat,” he said.

Powered by a 3.3-litre twin-turbocharged V6 diesel engine producing 227kW/700Nm, sent through a ten-speed automatic transmission to all four wheels, this is the fastest LandCruiser yet.

It’s also the most capable ‘Cruiser off the beaten track with more ground clearance and wheel articulation, thanks to longer suspension stroke and electronic sway bar disconnect, as well as smart tech like multi-terrain select off-road system.

“This top-of-the-range technology gives QPS District Duty Officers the tools they need to keep the community and their fellow officers safe,” said Minister for Fire and Emergency Services, Mark Ryan.

“I’m looking forward to the fit-out of further vehicles, which will hit the roads across Queensland in the coming months.”

New South Wales Police have also been trialling LandCruiser 300 Series patrol vehicles, before the vehicles can be put to use in regional areas.

Like the QPS models, they look to be equipped with factory accessory options like a bull bar and snorkel, but exactly what's inside remains a mystery.