The Alabama A&M University Department of Public Safety (DPS) has placed four new electric patrol vehicles into service, becoming the first university campus in Alabama to operate an electric police vehicle fleet.

The addition builds on the university’s sustainability initiatives. In 2019, Alabama A&M introduced electric buses, becoming the first campus in the state and the first HBCU in the nation to do so. The university has set a goal of achieving zero emissions by 2031.

“We’re the first police department in the state to deploy this type of vehicle on a university campus,” said Chief Montrez Payton, chief of police and executive director of emergency preparedness. “We’re supporting green initiatives while maintaining efficient response capabilities.”

Police-Equipped Electric Patrol Vehicles

The new Chevrolet Blazer EVs are police-packaged and fully outfitted for law enforcement use, according to the department.

“These are police-packaged vehicles with the same capabilities and equipment as traditional patrol units,” Payton said. “They support everything we need from a functionality standpoint.”

The vehicles were acquired through federal appropriations, with no cost to the university.

“The federal government invested in our campus and campus safety, which made this possible,” Payton said.

In addition to supporting sustainability goals, the department expects long-term cost savings from reduced maintenance and the elimination of fuel and oil changes. Payton said the department evaluated the vehicles through test drives and discussions with Georgia campuses that have already transitioned to electric patrol units.

Charging Infrastructure And Fleet Use

DPS recently completed construction of a dedicated charging station behind its building to support the new fleet.

The electric patrol vehicles are being used primarily for daily campus patrols. Gas-powered vehicles will continue to be used for longer-distance travel, including transporting athletic teams and the band, as the university expands its electric vehicle infrastructure.

According to Payton, the rollout has been well received by officers.

“They appreciate the investment in campus safety and the opportunity to be part of something innovative,” he said.