Anaheim Police Department to Introduce Tesla Model Y Cruisers in Response to Patrol Car Shortage
The Anaheim Police Department is set to launch a pioneering pilot program featuring six Tesla Model Y units starting this Monday.
The decision to integrate Tesla's electric vehicles into their fleet comes amidst a backdrop of supply chain challenges and delivery delays, compounded by the urgent need for replacements for aging patrol cars within the department.
Police Chief Rick Armendariz emphasized the necessity of exploring alternative options to alleviate the patrol vehicle shortage, stating, "Due to our patrol vehicle shortage, we had to seek out alternative vehicle options, which led us to explore utilizing Teslas as police vehicles. We are enhancing public safety for Anaheim by getting patrol vehicles into service faster."
Partnering with Unplugged Performance’s UP.FIT government and fleet vehicle company, the department swiftly outfitted the Model Y cruisers for patrol duties. Notably, the vehicles were sourced from Tesla’s available inventory, allowing for a quick turnaround in deployment.
Although specifics regarding the procurement cost were not disclosed, the most affordable Model Y available in the Anaheim area prior to tax credits stands at $41,390, as per Tesla’s website.
The choice of the Tesla Model Y was driven by its suite of advanced features, including rapid acceleration, ample storage capacity, and competitive pricing, coupled with minimal maintenance requirements.
Moreover, the department aims to closely monitor the performance, reliability, and long-term cost-effectiveness of the Model Y units throughout the pilot program. The outcomes of this initiative will play a pivotal role in shaping future decisions regarding the integration of EVs into the department's fleet.
To showcase the new additions, the department has organized a media preview day scheduled for Monday at the Anaheim Convention Center, running from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
The adoption of EVs by law enforcement agencies has been gaining traction nationwide, driven by their potential for substantial cost savings on maintenance and fuel. In a recent development, Tesla rolled out an advertisement advocating for the adoption of its EVs as police vehicles, citing potential savings exceeding $4,000 in police equipment costs.
This move by the Anaheim Police Department also reflects a broader trend, with other agencies, such as the South Pasadena Police Department, embracing Tesla vehicles as part of their fleet modernization efforts.
