California Police Aren’t Loving Their Tesla Cop Cars

California Police Departments Face Significant Challenges with Tesla Cop Cars

As California moves towards a future where new gasoline- and diesel-powered cars will be banned by 2035, police departments across the state are grappling with the practicalities of transitioning their fleets to electric vehicles, particularly those from Tesla. Despite the environmental benefits and cost savings associated with EVs, several high-ranking police officials have expressed strong reservations about using Tesla models as patrol cars.

Cramped Interiors and Limited Space

One of the primary concerns is the cramped interior space of Tesla vehicles. Ukiah Police Department Chief Cedric Crook, who purchased two Tesla Model 3 sedans for his department, highlighted that the back seat is only large enough to carry one prisoner. This limitation means that arresting multiple suspects would require multiple vehicles, straining resources and complicating operations.

Similarly, Menlo Park Police Department Chief David Norris, who tested three Tesla Model Y crossovers, reported that the interior space, even in the larger Model Y, is insufficient. Officers found the front cabin too cramped, especially when wearing their duty belts and bulletproof vests, which made the vehicle "nearly unusable".

Autopilot and Technological Issues

The advanced driver-assistance technologies in Teslas, particularly Autopilot, have also posed significant challenges. Officers from both the Ukiah and Menlo Park police departments reported issues with Autopilot interference, such as delays when shifting into drive and automatic stops when pulling over to the side of the road. These interruptions can be critical in high-stress situations and are seen as a major drawback.

Additionally, the reliance on a touchscreen for various controls, including lighting, has been criticized for its complexity. For instance, dimming the lights at night requires a multistep process, and features like proximity locking and sleep mode have caused issues with officers trying to keep their vehicles locked when needed.

Charging and Safety Concerns

Charging logistics are another significant concern. Public charging stations, while becoming more prevalent, are often treated as an afterthought. Officers have to spend considerable time at unsecured public charging stations, which can be risky when transporting dangerous suspects. Chief Crook cited an example where detectives had to travel 630 miles to Mexico, a journey that would be highly impractical with a Tesla due to the need for frequent and lengthy charging stops.

Moreover, the lack of an engine block in EVs raises safety concerns. Police officers are taught to hide behind the engine block in a firefight, a protection that is not available in Teslas. This fundamental safety issue has made many officers hesitant to use these vehicles in high-risk situations.

Modification Challenges

Modifying Teslas for police use is also proving to be a complex and time-consuming process. Chief Crook noted that there is only one company, Unplugged Performance, capable of converting Teslas into patrol cars, and the process can take months. In contrast, there are numerous third-party shops that specialize in modifying traditional police vehicles like those from Ford and Chevrolet.

Alternative Solutions

While Teslas are not meeting the expectations of many police departments, other electric vehicles are showing more promise. The Fort Bragg Police Department, for example, has had positive experiences with the Ford F-150 Lightning trucks. Chief Neil Cervenka praised the F-150 Lightning for its practicality, noting that the frunk and bed provide ample space for storing gear and hauling items, making it a more natural fit for police duties.

Environmental Initiatives and Future Outlook

Despite the challenges, some cities in California are pushing forward with electric vehicle adoption. South Pasadena, for instance, has become the first city in the U.S. to transition its entire police fleet to electric vehicles, using a combination of Tesla Model 3s and Model Ys. This move is part of a broader effort to reduce emissions and improve public health, especially in regions with poor air quality.

However, for many police departments, the current state of Tesla's offerings does not align with the practical needs of law enforcement. As California continues to push towards an all-electric future, it remains to be seen whether Tesla or other manufacturers will develop vehicles that better meet the unique demands of police work.