The country’s first all new electric police fleet unveiled
South Pasadena, a city on the edge of Los Angeles, has made history by becoming the first city in the nation to replace its entire fleet of police patrol cars with electric vehicles. On Monday, city officials proudly unveiled a fleet of 20 brand-new Teslas, marking a significant step towards a cleaner and more sustainable future.
A Bold Move Towards Sustainability
South Pasadena’s decision to switch from traditional gas-guzzling police cruisers to electric Teslas aims to protect public health and combat climate change by reducing emissions.
This innovative move will see the new Teslas using electric vehicle chargers installed at City Hall, ensuring that the fleet remains fully operational while minimizing its environmental impact.
Reducing Emissions and Improving Air Quality
Police vehicles are known for their high idle times, especially during traffic stops or emergency responses, which significantly contributes to emissions. Michael Cacciotti, a city council member and regional air quality official, emphasized the importance of this transition in the Los Angeles area, which still struggles with some of the nation’s worst air quality. “This is important, particularly in the Los Angeles area, which still has the most unhealthful air in the nation,” Cacciotti said. He expressed hope that other police departments in the region and state would follow South Pasadena’s lead.
A Pioneering Effort
While other cities have started incorporating electric vehicles into their fleets, South Pasadena stands out as the first to go fully electric. Nearby Anaheim has introduced six Teslas into its patrol fleet through a pilot program earlier this year. South Pasadena Police Sgt. Tony Abdalla mentioned that they were in contact with about 35 other agencies across the U.S. who were also exploring the use of Teslas in their fleets.
The New Fleet
The South Pasadena Police Department will now operate 10 Tesla Model Ys as patrol vehicles and 10 Tesla Model 3s for detective and administrative duties. These vehicles are customized for police use, ensuring they meet all operational needs. The city’s net cost for this transition is $1.85 million, with over half the total cost covered by energy providers Southern California Edison, the Clean Power Alliance, and the Mobile Source Air Pollution Reduction Review Committee.
Financial and Environmental Benefits
Mayor Evelyn Zneimer highlighted the comprehensive benefits of this transition in a news release. “We will have a 21st Century police force that is safe, clean and saves taxpayer dollars,” she stated. The switch to electric vehicles is expected to save South Pasadena about $4,000 annually per vehicle on energy costs. Additional savings will come from reduced maintenance expenses, such as brakes, oil changes, and air filters. According to Police Chief Brian Solinsky, the overall operational cost per mile will be at least half of what it was with gas-powered vehicles.
Addressing Air Pollution
The Los Angeles-Long Beach area ranks as the worst in the country for ozone pollution, also known as smog, and sixth for annual particle pollution, according to the American Lung Association. Carbon dioxide emissions contribute to climate change, which is partly blamed for the increasingly deadly wildfires in the region. By transitioning to electric vehicles, South Pasadena aims to set a precedent for reducing emissions and improving air quality in the region.
California’s Clean Fleet Regulations
California’s Advanced Clean Fleets rule mandates that public agencies ensure 50% of their vehicle purchases are zero-emissions starting this year, with a goal of 100% by 2027. However, police cars and other emergency vehicles are currently exempt from this requirement. Despite this exemption, South Pasadena’s proactive approach demonstrates a commitment to environmental responsibility and public health.
Leading by Example
South Pasadena’s decision to adopt an all-electric police fleet sets a powerful example for other cities and public agencies. By investing in sustainable transportation solutions, the city not only reduces its environmental footprint but also showcases the viability and benefits of electric vehicles in demanding roles like police work. This move aligns with broader efforts to combat climate change and promote cleaner air, positioning South Pasadena as a leader in the transition to sustainable urban living.
Conclusion
South Pasadena’s pioneering move to replace its police patrol cars with a fleet of 20 new Teslas marks a significant milestone in the journey toward a cleaner and more sustainable future. By reducing emissions and cutting operational costs, the city is setting a powerful example for others to follow. As other cities and police departments observe the benefits of this transition, South Pasadena’s leadership in this area will likely inspire similar initiatives nationwide. The commitment to sustainability, public health, and innovation underscores the city’s dedication to creating a better environment for its residents and setting new standards for urban sustainability. Photo Credit – washingtonpost / pressdemocrat / (AP Photo/Damian Dovarganes)
