The Origin and Evolution of the Panda Car: A British Police Vehicle

In the earlier decades of the 20th and early 21st centuries, a unique British term 'panda car' emerged as a distinct type of police vehicle. This article explores the historical context, distinctive features, and evolution of the panda car, shedding light on the fascinating development of this iconic police vehicle.

Introduction to the Term 'Panda Car'

Before the 1960s, marked police cars were limited to 'area cars,' driven by highly trained specialist drivers, and were invariably colored black. This stark uniformity made it crucial for 'bobbies on the beat' (beat officers) to have a more visible and recognizable means of transport. The introduction of patrol cars for these officers coincided with the need for clearer differentiation from unmarked and pursuit vehicles.

Panda Car: A Unique Solution

Instead of commissioning a special paint job, some police forces adopted a pragmatic solution. They purchased an equal number of cars, typically in two different colors such as white or blue and black. These vehicles had their doors and sometimes boot lids and bonnets swapped. As electric windows and other features became commonplace, the process of swapping doors became simpler, requiring minimal modifications.

The Popularity and Nickname

The black and white cars quickly earned the nickname 'panda cars' due to their striking appearance, resembling the markings of a panda. This term soon became a generic reference for all police cars serving routine duties. Modern patrol cars adhere to popular trends, often being white or silver, with markings applied as decals for visibility.

The First Prototype of the Panda Car

According to historical records, the origin of the panda car can be traced back to one of the northern English police forces. In the early 1950s, they purchased four police cars and swapped the doors and bonnets to create a distinctive look. The combination of two white and two black cars formed the prototype of the panda car, which gained wide recognition among the public and police forces.

The Naming Controversy

While the prototype was initially described as having black and white markings, many forces adopted a blue and white color scheme. Despite this, the term 'panda car' persisted as it aptly captured the visual appeal of the prototype. Over time, the color scheme of police cars evolved, with some featuring an orange bar around the vehicle, earning the nickname 'jam sandwiches.'

Current Trends in Police Car Design

Modern patrol cars now showcase a variety of color schemes, often following popular trends such as white with an orange strip. However, the term 'panda car' remains a nostalgic reference for older officers and enthusiasts. This enduring term encapsulates the unique history and design evolution of British police vehicles, highlighting the ingenuity and practicality of British police services.