The city of Palo Alto is set to make history with the world’s first Rivian R1S police cruiser. This groundbreaking electric SUV, however, is not quite ready for duty just yet. It still requires essential police equipment such as a light bar, push bar, and other accessories before it can hit the streets.
Captain James Reifschneider of the Palo Alto Police Department revealed that it will take several months to outfit the Rivian R1S with the necessary gear. The vehicle’s customization process is unique, as the suppliers of police equipment are not mass-market entities. Rivian’s engineers are currently collaborating with the city to procure the custom equipment needed for the police cruiser.
Although the electric SUV comes with a price tag of approximately $90,000, it offers more interior space compared to the gas-powered Ford Explorer and Dodge Durango currently in use by the department. Additionally, the Rivian R1S boasts impressive performance capabilities, with the ability to accelerate from zero to 60 mph in just 2.6 seconds and reach a top speed of 130 mph, depending on the trim level. The specific battery and motor configuration of this R1S model was not disclosed in the report.
While the Rivian R1S marks a significant milestone as the first of its kind in the police cruiser realm, it joins a growing trend of electric vehicles in law enforcement. Police departments across the country have introduced Tesla and Ford EVs into their fleets, including the controversial Cybertruck pickup. Internationally, Lucid’s Air sedan and Dacia’s affordable Spring EV have also found their way into various police departments.
Palo Alto is committed to further electrifying its vehicle fleet and promoting EV adoption among residents. The city incentivizes the installation of home chargers to facilitate the transition to electric vehicles. Mayor Ed Lauing recently announced that Palo Alto’s initiatives have led to the installation of 263 EV chargers, showcasing the city’s dedication to sustainability and innovation.
As the Rivian R1S police cruiser takes shape in Palo Alto, it exemplifies the intersection of cutting-edge technology and law enforcement, paving the way for a greener and more efficient future in policing.