Douglas Police Department is Moving Forward into the Future

Photo byCity of Douglas

The Douglas Police Department (DPD) is excited to unveil its Tesla Model Y test program. Instead of choosing a Ford, Dodge, or Chevy, the Douglas Police Department has made a unique choice by purchasing its first Tesla Model Y vehicles. The two new Tesla Model Y administrative vehicles and two new patrol vehicles, which look different from the usual police SUVs in the area, arrived on Friday, August 23, 2024. The DPD Teslas will be in full operation before the end of December 2024.

“The Police Department currently has quite a few vehicles, all of which are aging and prone to frequent breakdowns. Continuous maintenance also presents a significant challenge," explained Terry Fesperman, Fleet Maintenance Director. "The Model Y was selected for its cutting-edge features, safety features, swift acceleration, extensive storage space, cost-effectiveness, and minimal maintenance needs. This is a significant step forward in our efforts to not only advance our operational capabilities but also to significantly reduce our carbon footprint and operational costs.”

The Tesla Model Y vehicles are a part of the city’s electric vehicle pilot program and are expected to help reduce costs for both the Police Department and the community. The Tesla Y Models will be used to reduce patrol vehicles' operating costs and environmental impact. The vehicle has an estimated range of around 300 miles per charge, which makes it perfectly accommodate the needs of Douglas officers who, on average, drive about 100 miles in their 12-hour shifts.

“We have been searching for a solution for patrol car maintenance issues and costs. The Telsa Y has provided a solution with state-of-the-art technology and safety features,” says Douglas Police Chief Brannen Pruette. “These vehicles will enable officers to respond swiftly to incidents and effectively engage with the community. This isn't merely about upgrading our police fleet; it's a statement that we're committed to efficiency, reliability, and the highest level of service to our community. It's an investment in the future of law enforcement and the safety of our area.”

Although a fully equipped Y-Model Tesla costs a little more initially, its overall lifetime maintenance costs will be lower, not to mention the cost savings of not purchasing gasoline or oil. According to other cities using the Model Y, a single Model Y could save approximately $50,000 over 10 years due to gas savings and lower maintenance costs. The police department is collaborating with Unplugged Performance to equip the patrol vehicles with the necessary patrol equipment and with Axon to equip all its patrol vehicles with new, state-of-the-art, in-car video equipment.

Throughout the pilot program, DPD officers and fleet maintenance personnel will monitor the car’s performance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness in various operational settings. Depending on the collected data, the department will determine whether to purchase more Tesla vehicles for the fleet. With comprehensive training for officers on the new vehicles and equipment, it is the goal for a seamless transition that promises to set a benchmark for the future of law enforcement in Douglas and Coffee County.

Attributions: City of Douglas