Police departments can be old-school when it comes to adopting new technology but the Model PD is trying to change that. It’s a Tesla-based police vehicle with all of the physical changes necessary to do the job. Here’s an in-depth look at what its creators hope will be all over the roads in America soon.
Some police departments in the past have said that EV range, size, and other factors have kept them from switching to them entirely. Still others like the one in South Pasadena are making that change starting this year. Now, one company is offering a full turnkey solution built atop the Tesla Model Y.
That company is Model PD and its creation goes by the same name. It’s not just painted to look like a police car but actually comes with everything you’d expect – a push bumper, a secure back seat with proper materials, steel wheels, police-grade Goodyear tires, and integrated police lighting. Model PD even ditched the glass roof in favor of a carbon fiber version outfitted with lights and safety equipment.
More: This Californian Police Department Is Replacing Its Entire Patrol Fleet With Teslas
The interior is further modified to increase long-term durability with upgraded upholstery and a tougher floor. Model PD even adapted the infotainment system so that it could switch between the native Tesla system and a Windows-based version. That single modification simplifies the cabin and the addition of a swiveling keyboard allows either front passenger to input data.
Model PD is hoping to sell these direct to departments across the nation and already has a few sales. While the initial cost is likely higher than a comparable gas-powered police cruiser, the company says that most departments will save enough to pay for it within 18 months. Even though it hasn’t released its own data on that math, the Logan Police Department in Ohio currently uses Model PD vehicles. A video of one of its vehicles in a chase is below.
Model PD also says that whenever the Cybertruck comes out it’ll be in line for a full police package conversion. It considered Rivian and other EVs but it feels that Tesla will meet its production demand the best.