Georgia Tech PD Brings EVs to College Campus

The Georgia Tech Police Department (GTPD) is bringing electric vehicles to the university's campus, electrifying its patrol division with three all-electric Ford Mustang Mach-E GT SUVs.

Cutting Down on Emissions

The EVs join an already-growing electric fleet, with the department currently using various electric alternatives including electric bikes, golf carts, and electric scooters, a spokesperson told Government Fleet.

“Having electric cars join our force is great. We already have other alternatives we utilize as vehicles to include electric golf carts, trikes, and electric bikes,” said GTPD Lt. Jessica Howard, adding that this development is one that further aligns with the Institute’s vision of sustainability.

Electrify GT, a student group helping the Institute reach its carbon reduction goals as part of Tech’s sustainability vision, researched and identified the best cost-effective EV options. The Institute has a goal of reaching net-zero emissions by 2050.  

“We supported them in that endeavor with research and cost analysis, carbon accounting for what it would look like to implement electric vehicles into the patrol car fleet,” said Rohan Datta, Electrify GT president.  

The police lot has two charging stations set up to be used for the EVs. Check out the video below to learn more about Electrify GT's efforts.

According to Electrify GT’s report, the Ford Mustang Mach-E GTs, which offer about 250 miles on a full charge, supporting the patrolling needs for the Institute’s 3-mile radius — while reducing carbon emissions, provide up to $4,000 in fuel savings per vehicle.

Apart from reducing fuel costs, the university noted that the vehicles are projected to cut maintenance costs in half — key for patrol cars, which typically sit idle for extended periods. Noise pollution reduction on campus is another benefit.