Throughout the early 2000s, UK police fleets were dominated by unremarkable vehicles like Vauxhall Astras and Ford Focuses. However, in Hull, the East Riding of Yorkshire, a Malaysian car brand, Proton, became the default choice for local law enforcement. Despite their reputation for being inexpensive and uninspiring, these cars found their way into Humberside Police's fleet. Yet, amidst this backdrop of mundane vehicles, a spark of excitement emerged when Humberside Police introduced an extraordinary addition to its arsenal: the Lexus IS F. This high-performance vehicle not only caught the attention of car enthusiasts but also made national headlines for reasons that went beyond its capabilities on the road.
The Rise of an Unexpected Fleet
In the small town of Hull, the introduction of Proton vehicles was a curious decision. These cars, known for their cost-effectiveness rather than their charm, seemed an odd choice for police work. Nevertheless, someone within Humberside Police must have had a passion for performance cars. This led to the inclusion of Subaru Impreza WRX STIs in the mid-2000s and eventually the acquisition of the Lexus IS F in 2009. With a powerful 5.0-litre V8 engine producing 416bhp, the IS F became a symbol of speed and efficiency for the force.
Humberside Police’s decision to invest in high-performance vehicles wasn't just about making a statement. After a year-long evaluation process, they selected the IS F as a replacement for their aging fleet of Imprezas. Purchased from a local dealer, the car underwent extensive modifications costing £30,000 to equip it with necessary enforcement gear. This investment transformed the IS F into a tool for effective policing, capturing the imagination of young enthusiasts who witnessed its semi-regular deployments. For many, including a scruffy-haired teenager who would later write about his experiences, the IS F represented a thrilling chapter in automotive history.
A Legacy Cut Short
Despite its promising start, the Lexus IS F's tenure with Humberside Police was short-lived. In 2010, newly elected Prime Minister David Cameron criticized the car as an example of frivolous spending within the public sector. This political scrutiny likely contributed to its swift departure from service. Although the IS F garnered some media attention, it was primarily due to its controversial status rather than its operational achievements. Following its retirement from police duty, the car entered private ownership, where it occasionally appeared on enthusiast forums before fading into obscurity.
As of 2018, the IS F had not passed a valid MOT, suggesting it may now reside in a scrapyard. Its legacy, however, remains vivid in the memories of those who encountered it during its active years. The story of the Humberside Police Lexus IS F serves as a reminder of how unexpected choices can sometimes lead to remarkable outcomes. It is a tale of innovation, controversy, and ultimately, the fleeting nature of such bold decisions in the world of public service vehicles.