California Cops Critique Electric Patrol Cars: Space Constraints and Custom Jobs Challenge Tesla’s Model Y and Model 3

Law enforcement in California deems electric vehicles as almost ineffective

The adoption of Tesla's electric vehicles among the general public has been notable with the shift away from traditional fuel engines, however, these cars have yet to gain favor with police forces.

California is witnessing an increase in the presence of electric patrol vehicles as it works towards eliminating the sale of most new gasoline-powered vehicles by 2035. SF Gate spoke with police leaders from three cities in Northern California, who pointed out several problems associated with using the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y for police work.

The majority of car manufacturers create specialized versions of their regular vehicles for law enforcement use, yet Tesla has not followed this practice. Consequently, police forces in California have opted to purchase off-the-shelf Tesla vehicles and outsource the modifications to third-party businesses, resulting in uniquely tailored police cars. For instance, the Ukiah Police Department entrusted their Tesla modifications to Unplugged Performance, an aftermarket company situated roughly 500 miles away from their main office.

Unplugged Performance's version of the Tesla Model Y outfitted for police

The report suggests that although the Model 3 and Model Y can be outfitted with police gear such as lights and radios, their interior capacity is insufficient for law enforcement activities. A police chief mentioned to SF Gate that the Model 3 can only accommodate a single detainee in the rear, and another chief pointed out that the cramped space makes it almost impossible for officers in full gear, including duty belts and bulletproof vests, to use the Model Y for patrols.

Law enforcement officers in California aren't alone in their discontent with Tesla patrol vehicles. The Spokane Police Department in Washington gave their two Model Y SUVs harsh critiques in 2022. Despite this dissatisfaction, police forces continue to use Tesla due to the limited selection of all-electric patrol cars, although the market is slowly introducing more alternatives.

The Police Department of Fort Bragg has expressed satisfaction with their F-150 Lightning trucks. Without any directives from the government, they have added five electric trucks since 2022, which came at a lower cost than buying new gas-powered police cars, thanks to various discounts, as per the department head's statement to SF Gate. The department aims to transition its entire fleet of nine vehicles to electric within the next two years.

2023 Model of Ford F-150 Lightning Pro Special Service Vehicle

The F-150 isn't plagued by the limited space that affects the Model 3 and Model Y, offering a truck bed capable of hauling gear or the discarded bikes and carts that police officers occasionally need to collect. Furthermore, the Ford's established reputation with aftermarket equipment providers makes upkeep and repairs simpler.

Electric vehicles continue to join the ranks of law enforcement, with the latest addition being a Tesla Cybertruck acquired by the police force in Irvine, California. Meanwhile, Stellantis has hinted at a Dodge Charger Daytona designed for police use, possibly to retain its law enforcement clientele who favored the earlier model of the Charger sedan.

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