Summary
- South Pasadena is the first city in the US to replace its gas-burning police fleet with all-electric vehicles
- The switch to EVs is projected to save the city about $400,000 over ten years
- The city added 20 Tesla EVs to its police fleet, with 10 Model Y patrol vehicles and 10 Model 3 EVs for other duties
- They also installed 34 Level 2 chargers and a Level 3 DC fast charger for quick charging
- South Pasadena partnered with the Clean Power Alliance program to install solar panels and battery storage, further reducing costs and providing clean electricity for the EVs
Article
The City of South Pasadena in California has made history by becoming the first city in the United States to replace its gas-burning police fleet with all-electric vehicles. This decision was announced last year and has now been implemented with the addition of 20 brand-new Tesla EVs to the police department’s fleet. The vehicles, which include 10 Model Y patrol cars and 10 Model 3 EVs for detective and administrative duties, were leased on a 60-month contract and modified by Unplugged Performance’s Up.Fit division. This switch to all-electric vehicles is projected to save the city approximately $400,000 over the next ten years.
The addition of 20 all-electric police vehicles in South Pasadena not only brings cost savings but also introduces the advantage of silent patrol vehicles. The city has installed 34 Level 2 chargers at the Police Department and Fire Department, with 14 of them available for public use. Additionally, a Level 3 DC fast charger will be installed in the Police Department parking lot to facilitate quicker charging times for the fleet of electric vehicles. South Pasadena has also partnered with the Clean Power Alliance (CPA) Power Ready program to install solar panels and battery storage, ensuring clean electricity for the new electric police cars and serving as a backup power source in case of outages.
The decision to transition to an all-electric police fleet in South Pasadena was described as a “no-brainer” by city officials, as the switch not only offers cutting-edge vehicles for officers and staff but also leads to substantial reductions in fuel and maintenance costs. South Pasadena Police Chief Brian Solinsky emphasized that the initiative enhances service levels for residents by minimizing maintenance downtime commonly associated with gas engines. Operational costs for the new electric vehicles are expected to be around half on a per-mile basis compared to the old gas-powered police cruisers, further highlighting the financial benefits of transitioning to EVs.
The implementation of electric vehicles in South Pasadena’s police fleet represents a significant step towards environmental sustainability and cost efficiency. The city’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and embracing clean technology is evident in its partnership with the Clean Power Alliance and the installation of solar panels and battery storage. By utilizing renewable energy sources to power its electric police cars, South Pasadena is setting an example for other cities to follow in adopting eco-friendly practices. The switch to all-electric vehicles is not only beneficial for the environment but also for the city’s budget, with projected savings of approximately $400,000 over the next decade.
The addition of 20 brand-new Tesla EVs to the South Pasadena police fleet signifies a technological advancement that aligns with the city’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. The use of all-electric vehicles not only enhances the safety and efficiency of police operations but also reduces the overall carbon footprint of the city. By investing in electric infrastructure, such as charging stations and solar panels, South Pasadena is paving the way for a greener and more cost-effective future. The decision to switch to EVs demonstrates the city’s proactive approach to addressing climate change and embracing renewable energy solutions for its operations.
In conclusion, the City of South Pasadena’s transition to an all-electric police fleet marks a significant milestone in sustainable transportation initiatives. The cost savings, environmental benefits, and technological advancements associated with the switch to electric vehicles highlight the city’s progressive approach to modernizing its infrastructure. By partnering with organizations like the Clean Power Alliance and investing in clean energy solutions, South Pasadena is leading by example in promoting eco-friendly practices. The adoption of all-electric vehicles in the police department not only enhances operational efficiency but also contributes to a cleaner and healthier environment for residents. The success of South Pasadena’s electric fleet initiative serves as a blueprint for other cities looking to reduce their carbon footprint and embrace sustainable transportation options.
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