Police officers from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) and several other California law enforcement agencies recently participated in a groundbreaking EV training session at an Emergency Vehicle Operations Course (EVOC) facility. The event, organized by aftermarket modification company Unplugged Performance, provided officers with the opportunity to test Tesla vehicles equipped with UP.FIT modifications, showcasing the potential for electric vehicles in law enforcement.
For many of the officers, it was their first time driving a Tesla, and the experience left them thoroughly impressed. Throughout the day, officers praised the Teslas for their superior performance compared to the standard gas-powered patrol vehicles they were accustomed to. The acceleration, braking, and cornering precision of the Teslas were described as game-changing, with one participant noting that the difference felt like “a whole other world.”
One of the standout features that officers highlighted was the regenerative braking system, which allowed for smoother cornering without heavy use of traditional brakes. The all-wheel-drive handling and seamless electronic stability control (ESC) were also commended for making the Tesla vehicles feel both dynamic and safe under pressure.
In addition to performance, officers were impressed by the energy efficiency of the Teslas. Despite hours of intensive driving during the training session, the vehicles retained over 55% battery charge, showcasing their potential to handle extended patrol shifts without needing frequent recharging.
During collision avoidance drills, the Teslas were able to reach speeds of up to 56 mph, far exceeding the capabilities of older patrol cars like the Crown Victoria. A thrilling drag race featuring the LASD Model S Plaid served as the perfect finale to the event, leaving attendees in awe of the vehicle’s raw power and precision.
Several officers admitted that they had been skeptical about electric vehicles before the training session, but their perspectives shifted after experiencing the capabilities of the Teslas firsthand. One officer shared, “I came in hesitant about EVs, but now I’m completely sold on Tesla for law enforcement.”
The EV training session, which took place in December 2024, highlighted Tesla’s potential to revolutionize police fleets. Participants left the event inspired and enthusiastic about the future of electric vehicles in law enforcement. To see the full video of the event, click on the link provided.