The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) in Canada has begun the transition of its on-road light-duty fleet to zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) by 2035. Early in 2023, officers at two RCMP detachments initiated the use of the Tesla Model Y, marking the start of an extensive testing phase for various electric models.
British Columbia’s West Shore detachment and Ontario’s Rideau Hall Response Unit were pioneers in integrating these fully upfit mid-size SUVs into their daily operations, beginning in January 2023. These vehicles are part of the RCMP’s strategy to evaluate electric vehicles’ performance in real-world policing scenarios.
Corporal Didier Thibault, team lead of the Rideau Hall Response Team in Ottawa, said, “The Tesla seems to be very well liked by the officers,” he noted. “It’s always the first car selected when members sign in. They even come in earlier to get the car.”
The ergonomic design of the Tesla Model Y has been a point of consideration, particularly for officers spending extended hours in the vehicle. “The ergonomics are better compared to our standard police vehicle, but for taller and larger members, there’s still not as much room as a larger SUV,” Thibault added.
Andres Casimiri, manager of the RCMP’s National Fleet Program, highlighted the challenges and learning opportunities involved in adapting retail vehicles for police use. “Zero-emission, purpose-built police vehicles are only now becoming available to the Canadian market,” Casimiri said, outlining the process of contracting the upfitting of retail vehicles to a vendor.
The RCMP’s National Fleet Program awaits further electric vehicle models, such as the Ford Mustang Mach-E, Ford F150 Lightning, and the Chevrolet Blazer EV PPV, a purpose-built policing vehicle, expected to join the testing phase in 2024.
Constable Mark Hall of the West Shore detachment in British Columbia noted the practical benefits of using electric vehicles. “Charging has been easy; we drive in and plug it in,” Hall stated, also mentioning the efficiency of battery life and the reduced need for refueling.
Yves Madore, project lead for the fleet modernization project, emphasized the broader impact of this transition on policing operations. “A technology shift of this magnitude can redefine how we approach patrol operations,” Madore explained, underscoring the importance of adapting operational strategies to align with advanced technology ZEVs.
This initiative is part of the RCMP’s adherence to its Vision 150 and Beyond priorities and aligns with the Treasury Board Secretariat’s Greening Government Strategy, marking a significant step towards a more sustainable and efficient future in law enforcement.
