The Menlo Park Police Department has embraced California’s goal of zero emissions by 2035, joining several other police agencies in investing in Tesla vehicles. While the sleek design of Tesla cars makes them attractive as personal vehicles for their cost-effectiveness and environmental impact, many police departments have found them to have significant drawbacks for law enforcement use.
Take the Orange County Irvine Police Department, for instance. They spent $150,000 to customize a Tesla Cybertruck, which certainly looks impressive and has gained popularity with kids. However, a report by LAist indicated that this Cybertruck is nearly unusable for day-to-day duties, serving primarily as a goodwill ambassador during anti-drug campaigns.
A summary from the New York Post, based on interviews with police chiefs across California, highlighted five main challenges that make Tesla vehicles less suitable for police work: limited cabin space, insufficient range, maintenance difficulties, low protective capabilities, and issues with off-road performance, alongside automatic driving features that can interfere with law enforcement activities.
Regarding cabin space, officers not only wear bulletproof vests but also carry a 20-pound duty belt. This added bulk often gets caught in Tesla’s seating, making it nearly impossible for officers to swiftly exit the vehicle and apprehend suspects as they are trained to do.
When it comes to range, California’s vast landscape poses a problem. Transporting prisoners or suspects can involve trips spanning at least 500 miles from Northern to Southern California. While charging at various stations along the way might seem feasible, having to stop and recharge roadside can be much more nerve-wracking.
Consequently, the Menlo Park Police Department, located just six miles from Tesla’s headquarters, opted against using Tesla for patrol cars. Even after spending $150,000 to purchase three Tesla Model Ys and additional funds for modifications, they found it impractical.
Maintenance issues further complicate matters. In rural areas, such as Mendocino County, where the largest city, Ukiah, has a population of fewer than 20,000, the local police spent $150,000 to outfit a Tesla Model 3 to align with city climate initiatives. Unfortunately, necessary modifications had to be done 500 miles away, leading to long waits while also raising concerns about charging station availability.
Protection is another concern. Traditional gasoline vehicles have larger engine compartments, allowing officers to take cover during a shooting. Since Teslas lack a conventional engine, standard vehicles have been deemed safer. Ukiah’s police chief, Cedric Crook, stated he currently has no plans to use a Tesla for patrol.
Off-road capability also presents significant challenges. While officers appreciate the acceleration and handling of Teslas, they are critical of their off-road performance. In pursuits that require leaving the paved path, officers worry that a Tesla could struggle to keep up with suspects.
Moreover, Tesla’s overly advanced autopilot and navigation systems can hinder police work. Officers have reported incidents where the vehicle automatically brakes while trying to drive on the shoulder to pursue a suspect, as doing so is technically a violation of traffic laws.
In summary, while police departments throughout California have invested substantial sums to comply with state policies regarding zero-emission vehicles, it seems the solution may not be found in Tesla. The Fort Bragg Police Department, for example, ultimately decided to purchase five electric Ford F-150s instead, installing charging stations in their parking lot.
Chief Neil Cervenka remarked that the F-150, being America’s top-selling pickup, is easy to customize and maintain. In contrast, many of the complex issues surrounding Tesla vehicles require factory technicians, who have been in short supply for some time. However, he emphasizes the importance of maintaining environmental standards and mentions that while Tesla may not currently fit the needs of police work, alternative options are available. Tesla has yet to respond to these concerns.
