California police officer complains about buying Tesla to use as police car
Menlo Park Police Department recently added a Tesla Model Y to its fleet, aligning with California’s ambitious goal of achieving zero emissions by 2035. Many police departments across the state are making significant investments in Tesla electric vehicles. However, while the flashy design of a Tesla might appeal to private car buyers for its potential cost savings and environmental benefits, it appears to have several drawbacks when it comes to police use.
Take the Irvine Police Department, for instance. They invested $150,000 to modify a Tesla Cybertruck, which looks impressive and has been a hit with children. However, a report from LAist indicated that the modified Cybertruck is largely unfit for routine police duties, serving primarily as a friendly ambassador during events like the D.A.R.E. anti-drug program.
A summary by the New York Post, compiling insights from California media and police chiefs, concluded there are five main reasons why Tesla vehicles struggle as police cars: limited interior space, insufficient range, challenging maintenance, low protection levels, and restrictions imposed by their autonomous driving and navigation systems.
Regarding interior space, police officers not only have to wear bulletproof vests but also carry heavy duty belts weighing around 20 pounds. This gear often gets stuck in the Tesla’s seats, making swift exits to apprehend suspects nearly impossible—a critical requirement for law enforcement.
When it comes to range, California’s vast geography complicates matters. Transporting suspects from Northern to Southern California can involve 500 miles or more, and while charging stations are available in some areas, waiting for a charge on the roadside can be a nerve-racking experience.
As a result, the Menlo Park Police Department, located just six miles from a Tesla facility, opted against using Tesla for patrol duties, despite having spent $150,000 on three Model Ys and additional modifications.
Maintenance issues further complicate the situation. In rural areas like Mendocino County, where Ukiah has a population of under 20,000, the city police invested in a $150,000 Tesla Model 3 as part of its climate policy. However, the nearest qualified maintenance for the vehicle was over 500 miles away, and potential charging station shortages loom.
Protection is another critical concern. Traditional gas-powered vehicles benefit from larger engine compartments, offering better cover in case of gunfire. Since Teslas lack cylinders, unmodified body panels could leave officers vulnerable. Ukiah Police Chief Cedric Crook stated he isn’t planning on using Teslas for patrols anytime soon.
Off-road capability is also under scrutiny. Although officers admire Tesla’s acceleration and handling, they question its off-road performance. When pursuits go off the road, a Tesla might not keep up with fleeing suspects.
Even Tesla’s advanced autopilot and navigation features can become obstacles in police work. Officers have reported that when attempting to drive on the shoulder during a chase, the Tesla automatically brakes, interpreting the maneuver as a violation.
The New York Post highlights that while police departments across California are spending large sums to comply with state policies, it seems the solution for zero-emission patrol vehicles might lie elsewhere than with Tesla.
For example, the Fort Bragg Police Department ultimately decided to purchase five electric Ford F-150s and installed charging stations in their parking lot. Police Chief Neil Cervenka noted that the F-150 is the best-selling truck in the U.S., making it easy to modify and maintain. In contrast, many issues with the “tricky” Teslas require factory technicians, who are often unavailable due to high demand.
Cervenka emphasized the importance of environmental considerations but noted that Tesla might not currently be the best choice for police departments, hinting that other options exist that many may overlook. Tesla has not yet responded to these critiques.
