The vehicle was officially handed over by representatives from Thatcham Research to Border Force Director General, Sir Charles Montgomery.

Sir Charles said: ‘This vehicle is a vital teaching tool enabling Border Force training officers to deliver professional search training to their colleagues.

‘Our officers are at the forefront of the fight to keep illegal drugs and other banned substances out of the UK and use their skills, expertise and technical knowledge to make life as tough as possible for smugglers.’

The organisation said the delivery of this latest demonstration vehicle is indicative of the need for officers to stay up to speed with the latest technologies in vehicle construction.

Thatcham’s CEO Peter Shaw commented: ‘Modern vehicles are changing rapidly and it’s vital that Border Force officers have leading edge knowledge of the latest developments. In particular, understanding how the vehicle is constructed, where potential concealments could be made and to enable the safe handling of potentially hazardous components.’