Summary
- Michigan State Police acquired its first electric patrol vehicle, a 2024 Ford Mustang Mach-E
- This vehicle will be used by properties security officers at state-owned and leased facilities in Lansing
- Michigan State Police has been testing electric vehicles since 2022, with previously only using hybrid cars
- Ford has been promoting the Mustang Mach-E as a police car since 2021, with the NYPD acquiring some vehicles
- California police departments also use electric cars, mainly Tesla models, with other options being limited at the moment
Article
The Michigan State Police (MSP) has recently obtained its first electric patrol vehicle, a 2024 Ford Mustang Mach-E specifically modified for police use. This vehicle will be utilized by properties security officers in the MSP’s State Security Operations Section to patrol state-owned and leased facilities in Lansing, Michigan. While the MSP is well-known for rigorously testing new police vehicles, including electric vehicles (EVs) since 2022, this marks their first departure from traditional internal-combustion engines, as their previous experience with alternative powertrains was limited to hybrid police cars.
Although the MSP is just beginning to incorporate electric vehicles into its patrol fleet, other police departments across the country have already started utilizing EVs. Ford has been promoting the Mustang Mach-E as a police car since 2021, with the New York Police Department (NYPD) acquiring a few units. Ford also offers a police version of the F-150 Lightning pickup truck, and has expressed interest in developing “purpose-built electric police vehicles.” In contrast, several California police departments have successfully implemented electric cars, including Tesla Model 3 and Model Y crossovers that have been modified by aftermarket companies.
While some police departments have reported issues with using modified electric cars for law enforcement duties, the limited availability of electric police vehicle options poses a challenge. Tesla’s Cybertruck is being considered as a potential option for police work, although its suitability remains uncertain when compared to the company’s smaller electric vehicles. Stellantis has hinted at the development of a police version of the all-electric Dodge Charger Daytona, which could offer a more practical alternative to previous-generation gas-powered Charger sedans as they are phased out of service. The pursuit of alternative powertrains by law enforcement agencies aligns with the broader trend of increased acceptance of EVs among the general public.
As EV adoption continues to increase and technology evolves, police departments are exploring the potential benefits and feasibility of using electric patrol vehicles. The transition to electric-powered law enforcement vehicles represents a shift towards sustainable and environmentally-friendly policing practices. Despite the current limitations in terms of available options for electric police cars, advancements in EV technology and the ongoing development of purpose-built electric law enforcement vehicles offer promise for the future. The inclusion of the Ford Mustang Mach-E in the MSP’s patrol fleet marks a significant step towards a greener and more efficient approach to law enforcement operations in Michigan.
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