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This month, CHP started deploying Specially Marked Patrol Vehicles (SMPVs). The Dodge Durango Pursuit SUVs landed in the Bay Area as part of a statewide fleet refresh designed to catch certain drivers “in the act.”

Per the CHP’s Facebook post, the low-vis Dodge Durango fleet will help it confront aggressive drivers

This includes tailgaters, lane splitters, and excessive speeders.

According to the CHP’s video posted on Facebook, drivers breaking the law often see the regularly marked patrol cars and only briefly correct their behavior. By selecting factory Dodge colors and concealing the light systems, CHP can better blend into normal traffic.

These SUVs are part of a 400-vehicle expansion intended to make patrol units less noticeable and “more effective.” The new fleet includes 200 traditional black and white Durangos and 100 all-white models. The remaining 100 feature low-visibility colors, including “Destroyer Gray” and a darker “Night Moves.”

CHP offices in Hayward, Martinez, and San Jose get the first three SMPVs. By the end of summer, another 12 will roll out across the region.

“These cars have a 360-degree concealed light package,” CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee told KTVU. The low-profile light system stays hidden until activated, giving officers an advantage when tracking reckless drivers.

Although they look discreet, the new SUVs carry everything CHP officers need to do the job, including dash cameras, sirens, and pursuit-ready engines.

Duryee also gave KTVU’s Henry Lee a ride in one of the new cruisers at the CHP academy in West Sacramento. While the video shows Lee asking about the vehicle’s handling, Duryee responded, “It’s actually really, really good, especially for an SUV. You really wouldn’t expect that in an SUV.”

With this rollout, CHP says it aims to blend in better, respond faster, and catch more high-risk drivers in the act. If you live in Cali, you might soon spot an ordinary-looking Dodge Durango next to you that suddenly lights up.