The Dodge Charger Pursuit has long been considered the gold standard among police cruisers, known for its speed and performance. However, with the rise of electric vehicles (EVs) that can outpace traditional police cars, law enforcement agencies are facing new challenges in pursuit situations.
One of the main concerns for law enforcement is the acceleration capabilities of electric vehicles compared to gas-powered vehicles. Many EVs can reach speeds of 60 miles per hour in a fraction of the time it takes a Dodge Charger Pursuit, potentially giving suspects the upper hand in a chase. For example, a 2024 Kia EV6 GT can reach 60 MPH in just 3.2 seconds, while some Tesla models can do so in under three seconds.
In real-world scenarios, controlled tests have shown electric vehicles easily outpacing even state troopers. In a pursuit in West Memphis, Arkansas, a Tesla Model Y evaded two attempted PIT maneuvers by a state trooper before finally being stopped by a tire-deflation device. This highlights the need for law enforcement to adapt to the changing landscape of vehicle technology.
As a result, police departments across the country are beginning to add EVs to their fleets, with some even transitioning to all-electric vehicles. Officers are eager to get behind the wheel of these high-performance EVs, while jurisdictions are eyeing the significant cost savings over time.
One such department that has embraced electric patrol cars is the Georgia Tech Police Department. Lt. Jessica Howard of the campus police noted the advantages of using EVs in highway pursuits due to their quick acceleration. While Georgia Tech Police may not engage in highway pursuits, they recognize the importance of quick response times in urban environments.
In a recent police chase near Georgia Tech, officers pursued suspects in a Tesla who were fleeing at high speeds. The Tesla was eventually stopped due to heavy traffic, but the incident highlighted the need for law enforcement to have vehicles that can keep up with modern cars.
The shift towards electric patrol cars is not just about performance; it’s also about sustainability and cost savings. Departments like Georgia Tech Police are working towards net-zero emissions by 2050 and are finding that EVs offer significant fuel and maintenance cost savings compared to traditional patrol cars.
Despite some drawbacks, such as charging requirements and interior design limitations, the trend towards electric patrol cars is undeniable. With Dodge discontinuing the Charger in favor of electric models and Michigan State Police testing electric SUVs and pick-up trucks, it’s clear that the future of law enforcement vehicles is electric.
As Lt. Howard aptly puts it, „I envision the entire fleet at some point will be electric.“ With the performance, cost savings, and environmental benefits of electric vehicles, it’s only a matter of time before more departments follow suit in transitioning to electric patrol cars.