Tesla Model 3 joins NYPD

A Tesla Model 3 has been added to the New York City Police Department (NYPD) highway patrol fleet.

Various emergency services globally are trialling or using EVs, with New Zealand Police about to trial a Skoda Superb iV plug-in hybrid (PHEV) station wagon, New South Wales Police trialling a Hyundai Kona EV, Victoria Police tested a Tesla Model X in 2019, and emergency services in the United Kingdom have been offered the Model 3 too.

The NYPD is using the Tesla Model 3 Long Range dual motor, all-wheel drive, Teslarati reports.

It notes several US police departments and other regions have recently adopted all-electric transport.

“The idea is that the electric powertrains will provide safe and quiet patrol shifts for police officers,” Teslarati says.

“The lack of need to purchase gas and perform routine maintenance will save departments, and taxpayers, money in the long run.”

An NYPD spokeswoman is reported as saying it continually assesses new technology, including hybrids and EVs, and has a Chevrolet Volt, a Ford Fusion Hybrid, and a Ford Escape Hybrid as well as the Tesla.