Florida PD Rolls Out 13 Tesla Model Y Vehicles

The city of Hallandale Beach, Florida, has rolled out 13 new Tesla Model Y vehicles for its fleet. Twelve of the vehicles will be used by detectives, while one will be tested as a patrol vehicle, according to a press release.

“With this purchase, we’re taking a step into the future of Hallandale Beach, which is sustainable both financially and environmentally. We’re thrilled to be rolling out the largest deployment of electric Police Vehicles in the state of Florida - we believe the largest deployment in the United States, and to get these EVs on the road.” said City Manager Dr. Jeremy Earle.

The city pointed to reduced costs to power the electric vehicles (EVs), when compared to internal combustion engine vehicles, as well as a higher resale value. Funds from the American Rescue Plan Act partially covered the purchase.

“These Tesla Police Vehicles represent a win-win-win for our police officers, for the City’s residents, and for the environment. Our officers are getting an ideal vehicle for their work. Our residents are saving money over traditional Police Vehicles and can be proud that Hallandale Beach is one of the first Police Departments in the Country to go electric. And finally, as a beach community directly affected by rising sea levels, these cars will reduce the City’s contribution to climate change.” said Vice Mayor Mike Butler.

The purchase is part of the city's effort to replace existing police vehicles with hybrids and EVs, included in its 50 by 30 Climate Action Plan. The city is committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions 50% by 2030, and becoming net-zero by 2050.

This purchase, as well as the purchase of 49 hybrid police vehicles made in 2022, will help the city reduce fleet-related emissions by approximately 600 metric tons annually, according to the press release.

The vehicles will be charged utilizing chargers installed in the police station parking lot. Through a partnership with Florida Power and Light, four dualport Level 2 Charging stations are being installed to support the EVs at no construction or installation cost to the city. The chargers are connected to existing back-up power, ensuring that the vehicles can be operational even in the event of a power outage or hurricane. The city currently has nine other Level 2 charge ports on city properties. To account for emergency fast-charging needs and/or takehome charging, the city is planning to allow police officers to utilize the Tesla Supercharger network to charge their vehicles up to a certain dollar amount per fiscal year.