When it comes to police cruisers, a massive, heavy-duty pickup truck is far from the first vehicle that comes to mind. But Ram is looking to change that perception thanks to a special Ram 2500 HD pickup that’s been officially certified as a true blue cop truck.

Called the Ram 2500 Emergency Response Vehicle, the big Ram was able to pass the Michigan State Police evaluation for police vehicles, an infamously rigorous set of tests that pushes cars, SUVs, and trucks to their limits. That means that when Ram says this 2500 is pursuit-capable, it really means it.

Why Passing the Michigan State Police Evaluation is Important

At MotorTrend, we thoroughly test all manner of vehicles to see how they handle and drive in numerous scenarios. But our testing isn’t nearly as difficult as the thrashing the Michigan State Police (MSP) puts potential police vehicles through. There’s good reason for them to do so: Its tests ensure the vehicles that pass are the best for people whose lives are on the line.

The MSP doesn’t just hit the accelerator and slam on the brakes for its tests; it does 0–60, 0–80, and 0–100 mph benchmarks in combination with 20 full antilock brake stops from 60 mph. It also benchmarks the distance covered to reach a vehicle’s top speed before running vehicles for up to 32 laps at full throttle around Michigan’s Grattan Raceway. Then there are ergonomics tests unique to police use designed to ensure that an officer can work comfortably inside as well as enter and exit from the vehicle quickly while wearing full gear and self-protective equipment.

What Makes the Ram 2500 Emergency Response Vehicle Different

The Ram 2500 Emergency Response Vehicle is built off the automaker’s already impressive Special Service Vehicle. This means it starts with additional performance hardware, underbody protection, and built-in provisions for communications equipment. Most important, it’s equipped with the 6.4-liter Hemi V-8 engine backed by a heavy-duty version of the eight-speed TorqueFlite automatic transmission and a two-speed transfer case. It’s also equipped with a 4.10:1 axle ratio and features anti-slip differentials for maximum traction. It’s also equipped with a set of 18-inch steel wheels to help it survive intense pursuits and other rough-and-tumble situations encountered by emergency response vehicles.

Dual 400-amp alternators help power all the lights and auxiliary equipment regularly found in emergency services. There are also additional switches, further dedicated wiring, and a vehicle systems interface module that help make installing accessory equipment as painless as possible.