South Pasadena has made history by unveiling the nation’s first all-electric police fleet, consisting of 20 new Teslas.
The fleet includes 10 Tesla Model Y cars for patrols and 10 Model 3s for administrative and detective use, replacing gas-powered patrol cars.
Driving the news: The decision was driven by concerns about air quality, particularly in the Los Angeles area, known for having some of the most polluted air in the nation.
- The initiative is expected to save the city about $4,000 annually per vehicle on energy costs and reduce maintenance expenses associated with traditional gas-powered vehicles.
- South Pasadena’s transition to an all-electric police fleet was made possible with financial support from energy providers like Southern California Edison and the Clean Power Alliance, covering more than half of the $1.85 million net cost.
- The move aligns with California’s Advanced Clean Fleets rule, requiring public agencies to ensure 50% of their vehicle purchases are zero-emissions this year and 100% by 2027, with exemptions for police cars and emergency vehicles.
