NYPD test launches electric cars

NYPD Launches Nation's Largest Test Fleet of All-Electric Patrol Cars

The New York City Police Department is launching the largest test fleet of all-electric patrol cars in the country as part of its effort to electrify most of its vehicles by 2035. This move will reduce the city's carbon footprint and save millions of dollars spent on fuel each year.

NYPD Goes Green

• The NYPD is launching nearly 200 new electric patrol cars, making it the largest police EV trial in the country.

• The department has been testing retrofitted civilian hybrids since 2009 and pushed forward to make a true hybrid police car.

• The agency started using hybrid SUVs in 2019, which deliver about a 40% improvement on fuel economy, saving 700 gallons of gas per vehicle annually.

Testing Electric Patrol Cars

• This is the first time that fully electric vehicles are being used for patrol purposes, and they have to be tested to see if they can withstand the rigors of patrol.

• The Ford Mustang Maki Cruiser has more horsepower, torque, advanced safety features, faster acceleration (0 to 60), and faster braking than any other vehicle in the NYPD fleet.

• Police departments around the world are testing electric vehicles from Tesla's on patrol in Luxembourg to amaki keeping peace in Allegheny County Pennsylvania where the sheriff expects to save about $26k in fuel and maintenance costs.

Challenges with Electric Vehicles

• Transitioning to electric vehicles will be slower for police officers than retail customers because these vehicles are used differently by law enforcement officers.

• Fremont California police found that there was a bit of a learning curve when they switched to electric vehicles.

• One of the big concerns is whether these cars can be kept out there on a continual basis, and if they will be charged properly.

Feedback from Officers

• The NYPD's commander of Fleet Services is getting daily feedback from officers testing the electric patrol cars. So far, the car seems to be performing well, but officers need more space in the car to put police equipment.

• Officer Ryan Delacio thinks that the electric patrol car is just as capable as a gas-powered car and has a future in policing if it's managed properly and gets plugged in at night.