The Bargersville Police Department in Indiana made headlines five years ago when it became the first in the state to introduce a Tesla Model 3 to its patrol fleet. Fast forward to today, and Police Chief Todd Bertram has reported significant savings for the department since making the switch to electric vehicles.
According to Bertram, the department has saved nearly half a million dollars in fuel and maintenance costs since 2020. With an estimated annual savings of $70,000 to $80,000, it’s clear that the decision to go electric has paid off for the Bargersville Police Department.
What started with one Tesla Model 3 in 2019 has now grown to a fleet of 13 electric vehicles serving a 16-officer force. In June 2024, the department spent just $300 on charging the Teslas, compared to $3,100 in gas for four older Ford patrol cars. The savings are not only evident in fuel costs but also in maintenance expenses.
Bertram noted that the department has never had to replace the brakes on any of their Teslas, a significant cost-saving measure considering that brake jobs on traditional cruisers can amount to $1,500. Additionally, only one Tesla required a battery replacement, which was covered under warranty and had the vehicle back on the road in just three days—a repair that would have taken significantly longer on a gas-powered car.
When it comes time to replace the Teslas, the department has seen some return on investment as well. The first Tesla purchased by the department was later sold for $21,000 after reaching close to 100,000 miles. Bertram mentioned that decisions regarding resale are made by the town council.
Despite criticism surrounding Tesla’s CEO Elon Musk, Bertram remains steadfast in his commitment to the EV switch for the department. “The savings speak for themselves,” he emphasized.
The success of the Bargersville Police Department’s transition to electric vehicles serves as a testament to the benefits of embracing sustainable technology in law enforcement. With significant cost savings and minimal maintenance requirements, it’s clear that the future of policing may very well be electric.