Michigan police cars stick with classic lights — and there’s a good reason why
- Michigan State Police is, perhaps, the most unique police force in America
- In 1956, the force introduced the iconic ‘bubble light’ on its patrol cars
- The force has kept them active ever since – but it’s for a very good reason
Published on May 10, 2025 at 3:07 PM (UTC+4)
by Keelin McNamara
Last updated on May 07, 2025 at 2:35 PM (UTC+4)
Edited by
Tom Wood
The state of Michigan is renowned for quite a lot of things.
For one thing, Lake Michigan serves as one of the five Great Lakes.
It is also renowned for its sporting prowess in leagues such as the NFL and the MLB.
Michigan Police also remains the only state to use classic lights – with a very good reason why.
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Michigan State Police introduces bubble light
Michigan State Police (MSP) is a truly unique police force in the United States.
All the way back in 1956, MSP introduced the iconic ‘bubble light’ for its cars.
Also known as the ‘gumball light’, it was first introduced all the way back in 1956.
And said light has continuously flashed atop patrol cars in the state ever since.
Unlike other states, Michigan remains the only state to keep the bubble light.
Various other police forces have the dreaded red-and-blue flashing bar across the hood.
However, the light has (ironically) become a much beloved symbol.
And the state of Michigan has no plans to lose it anytime soon, either.
MSP moves with the times whilst maintaining past
What makes this topic so fascinating is that the MSP has science on its side.
The light hasn’t solely remained on MSP patrol cars just for pure nostalgia.
In fact, the department claims that the light is more fuel efficient than the front bar.
Its argument is that the rounded light is more aerodynamic, therefore reducing drag.
All of this is not to say that Michigan is opposed to evolution or progression.
On the contrary, in fact – the lights have been receiving upgrades since the 2000s.
2023 saw the biggest overhaul to date, with the light getting shortened by three inches.
Its contents now contain 42 percent LED bulbs, with over 144 bulbs now serving in the light.
Despite panic about the lights eventually being phased out, Michiganders need not worry.
MSP doesn’t seem to have any plans to replace its iconic lights any time soon.
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Keelin McNamara is a content writer at Supercar Blondie from Ireland, covering cars, technology, and lifestyle. Despite being a Law graduate, he discovered his passion for journalism during the COVID-19 pandemic, and has worked in the industry ever since. Outside of work, he is an avid MotoGP fan, and is a self-confessed addict of the sport.
