Onalaska Police Department goes green with electric squad cars
The Onalaska Police Department has taken a significant step towards sustainability by adding two new electric vehicles to their fleet. This initiative follows a partnership with General Motors, aiming to enhance efficiency and achieve cost savings.
Benefits of Electric Vehicles
Reduced Maintenance: Police Chief Charles Ashbeck highlighted that electric vehicles require less maintenance than traditional gas-powered cars. This means the new electric squad cars will spend less time in the shop and more time patrolling the streets.
Durability: While all vehicles face issues over time, electric models are designed to withstand the tough conditions police cars often encounter.
Cost-Effectiveness: The warranty covers major repairs for the entire duration the department owns the cars, reducing financial risk. As battery technology improves, the cost of these vehicles is expected to decrease further.
Officer Feedback
Initially, there were mixed reactions within the department. However, many officers have now embraced the change. Officer Tyler Blair noted several advantages:
- Fewer trips to the gas station
- Superior power and performance for highway and interstate pursuits
Future Plans
The warranty for these vehicles is extensive, covering them for up to 8 years or 100,000 miles. The department plans to add two more electric vehicles to their fleet in the near future, continuing their shift towards more sustainable and efficient policing.