NEW CAR SMELL—The 2010 Ford Crown Victoria police package vehicles, like the one seen here, will be delivered in about 90 days. The Simi Valley Police Department will soon retire 10 old-timers and replace them with newer models—cars, that is.

The City Council approved Monday the purchase of 10 new black-and-white patrol cars for the station.

During this fiscal year’s budget process, 34 vehicles were identified as needing replacement. The police department deferred the replacement of 22 of those vehicles. The remaining 12 include 10 patrol cars and two motorcycles.

In October, the city sent bid packages to 10 local area vendors. Including prices received from the Los Angeles County and state Cooperative Purchasing Programs, 13 bids were submitted for consideration, one of which did not meet the bid criteria. San Bernardino-based dealer Fairview Ford submitted the lowest bid at $226,297.50. Simi Valley Ford put in the highest bid at $275,637.90.

The 2010 Ford Crown Victoria police package vehicles will be delivered in about 90 days. Police package vehicles contain special equipment specifically for law enforcement, such as a larger engine.

—Carissa Marsh