According to a just-released press release, the city of Chicago has placed an order to buy 500 Ford Police Interceptor sedans and utility vehicles. While it might be the largest commitment to date for the Ford Taurus-based police car, it's not really unexpected. Because, you know, Ford builds them in Chicago.

Thanks to the extensive tests done by the Michigan State Police, the forthcoming Taurus-based Ford Police Interceptors have won a "pursuit rating," meaning they're ready for law enforcers across America to trade in their Crown Vics. Tick tick tick...

Ford brought a stealth version of its Police Interceptor to SEMA, sporting blacked-out lenses, a one-inch suspension drop and wider tires. Perfect for undercover work, except for, you know, the chrome-rimmed wheels and bright-red brake calipers.

The word "miraculous" scarcely describes the survival of a Santa Maria, California police officer who wrapped his Ford Police Interceptor around a tree Sunday morning. It's what the local Police Chief calls the "worst accident he's seen in 35 years."

Ford's Crown Victoria-based police interceptor will finally end production late next year. This is its replacement — the 2012 Ford Police Interceptor. Other than the movie Robocop, it's the first time Ford's Taurus has served as a purpose-built patrol car.

Before you ask, no, this isn't it. But an all-new Interceptor is set to replace the old-and-busted Crown Vic, and it's likely to be rear-wheel drive. Get in the car, perp.