The South Pasadena Police Department has become the first in the nation to fully transition from gasoline-powered vehicles to an all-electric fleet.
With the acquisition of 10 Tesla Model Ys for patrol and 10 Model 3s for administrative duties, the department aims to enhance sustainability while saving costs. The transition is supported by a network of 34 new electric vehicle chargers at City Hall, backed by a solar-powered system to ensure resilience during outages.
Mayor Evelyn Zneimer stated the shift reflects a commitment to environmental stewardship and fiscal responsibility. The initiative is anticipated to save approximately $4,000 per vehicle annually on energy and maintenance costs.
Regional air quality officials have praised the move, emphasizing its potential to reduce harmful emissions and improve public health. This landmark effort sets a precedent for law enforcement agencies nationwide to adopt cleaner, more efficient technologies.
