A hostage negotiation vehicle (HNV) is a specialized blend of tools, technology and resources integrated into a secure and controlled environment where negotiators can quickly and safely resolve any crisis or hostage situation.
Our team at Frontline Communications includes experts in system design engineering and integration, all dedicated to developing HNVs that meet the unique needs of any department, agency or environment. This article provides an overview of how Frontline Communications assists customers in designing, building, implementing and maintaining customized hostage negotiation vehicles.
Our HNV design and manufacturing process includes a series of thoughtful steps where we work closely with our customers to ensure we create a hostage negotiation vehicle that best fits their department's needs. From the initial phone call consultation to a life-long service and support partnership, we have you covered.
Initial discussions should also cover crisis vehicle specifications, including:
Discover the 4 key features of a hostage negotiation vehicle in this detailed blog post.
Using consultation notes and client input, the Frontline Communications engineering team utilizes their experience, expertise and parametric technology programs (AutoCAD, CATIA, and SOLIDWORKS) to create detailed illustrations of the proposed mechanical, electrical and electronic systems for each new HNV. Once the specs are created, your local sales representative will share the proposal and discuss any questions or suggestions for changes to the proposed design, equipment or technology options.
Proposal presentations also include a discussion of pricing options. Because HNVs are highly customized, pricing for hostage negotiation trucks can range from around $350,000 upwards to $2.5 million based primarily on vehicle size and technology features. Our sales representatives work closely with clients to optimize HNV design without exceeding their budget.
Once a client approves the vehicle design and price, their sales representative will place the vehicle order and schedule a pre-construction meeting at Frontline Communications Headquarters in Clearwater, FL.
During this meeting, clients can tour the facility and see where and how their hostage negotiation vehicle will be manufactured. It also provides an opportunity to learn about new technology innovations being added to vehicles currently under construction. Our engineering team will review every element of your HNV design, answer your questions and make any adjustments or needed additions. Construction of your HNV will begin once the final designs are approved.
During this time, clients will be able to test drive the vehicle, operate equipment, test features and more. They will also receive extensive training in vehicle and system operation and maintenance from our expert staff.
Check out this recent C-24 Crisis Negotiation Vehicle delivery to the FBI field office in Chicago, IL.
Once you receive your new HNV, we will continue to be your partner and provide the support needed to ensure your vehicle continues to run at optimal performance.
Frontline Communications ongoing after-delivery support is fueled by a full-time staff of technical representatives with extensive backgrounds in crisis vehicle design, construction and maintenance. Our dedicated support team provides 24/7 support with repair and diagnostic services, replacement parts and warranty questions.
Frontline Communications also maintains an exclusive Nationwide Service Network with over 93 service locations across the U.S. and Canada to provide routine maintenance, on-site repairs and technical system upgrades.
While state-of-the-art when built, hostage negotiation vehicle technology is constantly evolving. Frontline Communications technology refreshes is the process of updating system technology to ensure your vehicle is always equipped to provide the highest level of communication and crisis management support.
Elements of a technology refresh could include updates to:
Every Frontline Communications HNV is designed for seamless technology upgrades. If your crisis vehicle is running well mechanically but needs a technology enhancement, there’s no need to purchase a whole new vehicle. A technology refresh is a great way to restore your investment.
Read this blog post to learn everything you need to know about our technology refresh process.
Since 1985, Frontline Communications has built over 3,500 custom communication vehicles for emergency situation response, including hostage negotiation, mobile command vehicles and special-purpose units, such as bomb/EOD vehicles, SWAT trucks and mobile crime labs.
Frontline Communications understands advanced designs don’t matter without reliable, consistent support. From concept development to vehicle delivery and beyond, our process is a partnership committed to providing and maintaining crisis vehicles designed to empower your department and protect your community.