Top 10 Video Countdown - #3 - Ford F-250 FastLane Command Vehicle

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Video Review - FastLane Ford F250 Interface Command Vehicle

The Ford F-250 Fastlane 4x4 Interface Command Vehicle can handle incident command responses both on the highway and in remote off-road situations. This unique command vehicle is designed by Fire Trucks Plus and was built by FastLane Emergency Vehicles. It incorporates several innovations in emergency vehicle wiring with the durable, yet comfortable design of the Ford F-250.

FastLane Emergency Vehicles of Purcellville, Virginia is the pioneer in using a multiplexing system for the installation and operation of emergency communications, lighting and warning systems. Instead of using the traditional hard-wired system that most command vehicle outfitters employ, FastLane was the first command vehicle manufacturer to use the multiplexing concept on their products, eliminating unsightly wiring and making for easy access with regards to future modifications or repairs. The FastLane multiplexing system allows for a low profile overhead console that displays a Command Net 320 read-out, one-touch emergency switches for light and siren controls, and three speaker ports for the emergency radio system. The "brains" of the multiplexing system are neatly built into a cabinet in the rear of the four door pick-up cab.

FastLane has removed the center front seat, and has replaced it with a durable center console that holds two 12-volt outlets, a Whelen Traffic Advisor, a Whelen Siren Control Unit, and an optional space for additional radios. The Fastlane Fire Trucks Plus Ford F-250 4x4 Interface Command Vehicle is outfitted with a Whelen LED light package that includes a light bar, grill lights and four mounted scene lights, that are highly visible to oncoming traffic.

The four door Ford F-250 Super Duty pick-up was chosen for this application because of its versatility and ruggedness. Its interior is made of durable plastic, and it offers an ample amount of storage space throughout the interior. The dashboard provides room for a clipboard, paperwork and map books, and the side doors have large pockets for additional storage. The rear bench seat lifts up providing space to stow gear or hand tools. The driver's side rear seat has been removed and was replaced with FastLane's custom storage cabinet that features locking drawers and the control center for the multiplexing system. FastLane outfits its command vehicles with highly durable marine-grade, coated plywood cabinets.

The Ford F-250 Super Duty features a 300 HP, 8 cylinder engine and a 5-speed automatic transmission. It has tilt wheel and cruise control, along with A/C and power windows, locks and mirrors. Safety features include ABS on all four wheels and airbags for both the driver and the passenger. This unit comes with 20" Ford factory wheels and Wrangler Goodyear ATS tires.

The features that set the FastLane Fire Trucks Plus 4x4 Ford F-250 Command Vehicle apart from standard pick-up trucks and make it an "Interface" command vehicle are the industrial-grade camper shell, manufactured by FastLane, and the cabinets which are installed inside the pick-up bed. The command center, itself, is located inside of the bed on a bed slide. With a simple turn of a handle, the unit slides out the length of the bed. The command station features a slide out tray with a command board and two work stations. It has numerous compartments and drawers, and has 12-volt outlets and room for two radios.

In addition, the storage area inside of the pick-up bed is very versatile. It can carry cases of water, a Stokes basket or strike team supplies. In the event of an overnight deployment, it has a sleeping area that can accommodate one person.

An extra amenity provided by FastLane that does not come custom on the Ford F-250 Super Duty is the Pioneer Sound System. This package includes a CD Player, AM/FM Radio, MP3 Player, and a navigation system. It also has a rear-mounted camera that can assist personnel in backing up.

The FastLane Fire Trucks Plus 4x4 Ford F-250 Interface Command Vehicle is one of several makes and models produced by FastLane Emergency Vehicles and distributed by Fire Trucks Plus. They have the ability to custom produce command vehicles on any manufacturer's SUV or pick-up platform, depending on a fire department's needs or preferences. To find out more about the Ford F-250 Interface Command Vehicle, please visit www.firetrucksplus.com or www.flev.com.

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Author:Paul Batista - FDNNTV.com