Tesla police cars are popping up around the US right now, and one of the first pilot programs has been determined a success by a California Police Department.
On Thursday, the Fremont Police Department released information on its pilot program, which used a Tesla Model S as a patrol car, and the department has determined that it will, in fact, purchase an entire fleet of zero-emission police patrol vehicles, as shared in a statement (via CBS).
In its report, the department wrote, “After careful review, the Pilot Program was determined to be a success. The police patrol electric vehicle met the needs of police services,” the department said in its report released Thursday.
Speaking of fleets, Fremont piloted a Tesla Model S 85 #EV as part of their police dept. fleet. What they found:
$4,097 in fuel savings compared to a gas-powered Ford;
27 more days on the road, rather than in maintenance;
42,198 lbs fewer in carbon emissions. https://t.co/Necn47l0Ph
— Coltura (@ColturaChange) November 20, 2020
The pilot program originally granted the Fremont Police Department its Tesla pilot car in 2019.
Sean Washington, Department Captain, said, “The final results from the one-year Electric Patrol Vehicle Pilot Program have been encouraging as the City of Fremont continues to look for cost-effective ways to help make Fremont more sustainable.”
During the program, the Model S consumed a total of $1,036 (USD) in energy, while the annual cost of gas for the average Ford patrol car totaled roughly $5,133 annually.
Police have said they may be looking to the Tesla Model Y for its fleet, citing a lower starting price, increased range, improved storage, and a higher clearance level – all benefits to a police officer looking to stay ahead of the curve.
