The classic TV show “Highway Patrol,” a staple for fans of vintage television and automotive enthusiasts alike, often raises a curious question: why did the program feature a variety of car makes, rather than sticking to a single brand? Unlike many shows of its era that prominently showcased vehicles from one manufacturer, “Highway Patrol” became known for its diverse fleet of police cruisers. Let’s delve into the reasons behind this intriguing aspect of the show.
From 1955 to 1959, “Highway Patrol” captivated audiences with its action-packed crime drama centered around Chief Dan Mathews, played by Broderick Crawford. Initially, the show did utilize actual California Highway Patrol (CHP) vehicles, most notably the 1955 Buick Century. These Buicks became synonymous with the early episodes, lending an air of authenticity to the police procedural. However, this initial reliance on CHP vehicles was short-lived.
As the series progressed, the California Highway Patrol ceased providing vehicles for “Highway Patrol”. This pivotal change forced the show’s production team to source their own cars. This necessity inadvertently led to the diverse range of makes and models that became a hallmark of the program. Instead of being limited to a single brand through a sponsorship deal, “Highway Patrol” began featuring vehicles from various manufacturers including Buick, Mercury, Dodge, and Plymouth.
This departure from brand exclusivity was quite distinct from other shows of the time. For instance, “Superman” famously featured Nash vehicles in its early episodes due to a sponsorship agreement. “Highway Patrol,” however, operated without such constraints. This freedom allowed the production to select cars based on availability, cost-effectiveness, and perhaps even visual appeal, leading to a more realistic portrayal of law enforcement vehicles, even if unintentionally.
The absence of a formal automotive sponsor provided “Highway Patrol” with a unique advantage. It presented a wider spectrum of American automobiles from the mid-1950s, reflecting the automotive landscape of the era more accurately. Viewers tuning in each week were treated to glimpses of different makes and models, adding another layer of interest for car enthusiasts.
In conclusion, the reason “Highway Patrol” drove different make cars boils down to the practicalities of production and the absence of a single car manufacturer sponsorship. What started as a necessity after the CHP stopped providing vehicles evolved into a defining characteristic of the show, offering a diverse and fascinating look at the cars of the 1950s. This variety not only enhanced the visual appeal of “Highway Patrol” but also provided a more authentic, albeit accidental, representation of the era’s automotive scene.
