After an initial Facebook announcement in late July, the Irvine Police Department confirmed a Tesla Cybertruck will be added to the fleet. 

A New Look for Community Outreach

An Irvine PD representative told Government Fleet the vehicle will be used in a community outreach format. The Cybertruck will primarily be assigned to a Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE) unit officer who teach at elementary schools and other specialty programs throughout the city. 

The Cybertruck is replacing another DARE vehicle that has reached its shelf life. 

NEWS: The Irvine, California Police Department has just spent $150,000 to buy a Foundation Series @Tesla Cybertruck.

It will become part of the department's Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE) unit.

The department is spending $20,000 (included in the $150k number) for the… pic.twitter.com/3oLcCsaobJ

— Sawyer Merritt (@SawyerMerritt) September 10, 2024

According to Sergeant Karie Davies, Irvine DARE vehicles are traditionally chosen based on what is popular at the time coupled with availability. 

"In the past we have used a host of cars that had custom painted graphics to make the look fun for the kids and the community," Davies stated. "You will find many photos in our archives that feature these community vehicles and a host of happy faces to go with it. They are featured at many of our events and allow us to interact with the community in a fun and informal way." 

The police department hopes to have the vehicle ready in the next couple of weeks.