The Los Angeles Police Service is planning to add a number of Tesla Motors Inc (NASDAQ:TSLA) Model S cars to its fleet of patrol cars. Given the car’s ability to rise from zero to 60 mph in less than 3 seconds, the department believes it could play an important role in ending high-speed chases more quickly.
Tesla Model S Patrol Car
The LAPD has already confirmed that it is testing a Model S for police field duty. If successful, the final Model S patrol car will come fitted with radios, computers as well as custody cage and a locking shotgun rack. Tesla is to play a pivotal role in customizing the model S so that it meets police standards.
However, it is still unclear the number of Model S that the police department will be buying from the EV giant. A point of concern is the fact that the car costs more than a normal police car. An average patrol car costs $47,500 coming fitted with all the standard police equipment. Given that Model S costs as much as $66,000, its final cost could rise on Tesla customizing it to meet police standards.
Mayor’s Sentiments
Given the cost factor, it would not come as a surprise if the department orders a smaller number to bolster its current fleet. The Model S will not be the first high-end car that the department has bought. BMW i3s currently form part of the fleet, normally used for emergencies and special operations.
The City’s mayor Eric Garcetti has already echoed the move to buy the electric car reiterating that it will not only help in high-speed pursuits but also help in fighting carbon emissions. The mayor does not expect costs to be a big problem given that the Tesla Motors Inc (NASDAQ:TSLA) Model S comes with reduced operational costs compared to conventional patrol cars.
“This year, Los Angeles will become home to the largest city-owned fleet of pure battery electric vehicles anywhere in the country, and we will save taxpayer dollars along the way,” said the mayor.
Tesla stock was up by $5.14 in Tuesday trading session closing the day on a high of $199.10 a share.