Police officers from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) and eight other California agencies recently took part in a unique EV training session at an Emergency Vehicle Operations Course (EVOC) facility, organized by aftermarket modification company, Unplugged Performance.
The event gave officers the opportunity to test Tesla vehicles equipped with UP.FIT modifications. For many, it was their first time driving a Tesla, and the experience left them thoroughly impressed.
Throughout the day, officers praised the Teslas for their superior performance compared to the standard gas-guzzling Ford Explorer patrol vehicle.
Officers highlighted the Tesla’s acceleration, braking, and cornering precision as game-changing, with one participant describing the difference as “a whole other world.” The integration of regenerative braking particularly stood out, allowing drivers to navigate corners more smoothly without heavy use of traditional brakes. The all-wheel-drive handling and seamless electronic stability control (ESC) earned additional accolades for making the Tesla feel both dynamic and safe under pressure.
The energy efficiency of the Teslas also caught attention. Despite hours of intensive driving, the vehicles retained over 55% battery charge, demonstrating their potential to handle extended patrol shifts.
Officers noted how collision avoidance drills achieved speeds of up to 56 mph—far exceeding the capabilities of older patrol cars like the Crown Victoria. A thrilling drag race featuring the LASD Model S Plaid capped off the day, leaving attendees amazed by its raw power and precision.
Several officers admitted they had been skeptical about electric vehicles before the event, but their perspectives shifted after experiencing Tesla’s capabilities firsthand. One officer remarked, “I came in hesitant about EVs, but now I’m completely sold on Tesla for law enforcement.”
The event, hosted in December 2024, showcased Tesla’s potential to revolutionize police fleets. It left participants inspired and enthusiastic about the future of electric vehicles in law enforcement. Check out the full video below:
