The state-of-the-art SMART cars (Special Mobile Anti-Road Toll Cars) are visually bold Ignition-coloured Holden SS Commodores, designed to provide maximum visibility on roads during peak periods.

Victorian Premier Steve Bracks and Assistant Commissioner (Traffic and Transport) Noel Ashby unveiled the fleet last Wednesday as part of the Easter road safety campaign.

Assistant Commisioner Ashby said the vehicles would form an integral part of Victoria Police’s overall road safety strategy.

“The Easter period has been one of high road trauma in the past and the SMART cars help highlight the presence of police on our roads during this time,” Ashby said.

“Police will be out in force right across the weekend and we urge people to take every precaution when using the roads, whether you are travelling just in your area or across the state."

“The SMART cars are a highly visible aspect of our operations and serve as an excellent reminder to drivers that the police are out there and if you are doing the wrong thing, you will be caught.”

Holden is a major supplier of fleet vehicles to Victoria Police and the Commodore SS SMART cars were developed in close collaboration between the two organisations.

Simon Carr, Holden Director - National Fleet, said “The relationship between Holden and Victoria Police is a highly collaborative one. SS Commodores have been an integral part of the police fleet since 1999 and Holden has been supplying cars to Victoria Police since the introduction of the 48/215 in 1948.

“Furthermore, like Holden, Victoria Police has a strong commitment to safety and innovation, so we have worked very closely with the police on the design of these vehicles for maximum effect.”