For many years, the Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor, CVPI, powered by an ICE, was the preferred vehicle of police agencies across the United States. Many arrested suspects may recall riding in the backseat of a car to the station. Even if you haven't had a run-in with the authorities, you can see the CVPI's legacy in numerous police action movies, where the cops always catch their man, even if it takes a high-speed pursuit!
However, as technology advances, is it time for law enforcement to abandon their carbon-emitting vehicles in favor of battery-powered patrol cars?
There are several reasons why police officers should embrace EVs. For one thing, while their primary concentration is on combating crime and keeping the community secure, the police may also combat pollution and protect the environment! According to the city of Ipswich, replacing an ICE with an EV reduces carbon emissions by 87 percent!
In addition to reducing exhaust pollution, EV patrol vehicles save money, which Ipswich, Massachusetts, estimates at $13,000 per car over a ten-year period. When this is applied to a big police fleet, the savings are considerable. This lower operational cost is due to the fact that charging an electric vehicle is less expensive than fueling an ICE vehicle. Electric vehicles also require less maintenance, cutting the police department's repair and service costs.
When it comes to illegal chases, while being prohibited owing to the hazards they bring to the general public, police officers have a higher chance of catching their prey when they chase in electric cars. This is owing to the quicker acceleration that EVs can achieve. Even when not actively chasing fleeing suspected lawbreakers, police officers with battery-powered patrol cars may arrive at crime scenes faster.
There are several choices for police agencies looking to transition to electric vehicles. With funds, the Ipswich Police Department in Massachusetts adapted a Tesla Model Y for patrol. The Bargersville Police Department in Indiana replaced a Dodge Charger with a Tesla Model 3 in 2019.
For agencies who prefer Ford, the American carmaker provides the Ford Mach E, which has been converted for police usage and has passed the Michigan State Police 2022 model year examination. It passed the acceleration, peak speed, braking, high-pursuit, and emergency reaction tests with flying colors.
"The fact that the Mustang Mach-E successfully held up to the arduous Michigan State Police inspection indicates that Ford can design electric cars that are capable, durable, and dependable enough for even the most challenging duties," stated Ted Cannis, CEO of Ford Pro. We understand our business clients' demands and are committed to providing them with new electrification prospects."
Here's a video of the Michigan State Police Department putting a worthy successor for the Ford Crown Victoria's through its paces.
